Russian missile numbers 'diminishing' as UK provides cutting-edge air defence missile

The Russians "are using already the best of what they've got" and "their missile numbers are diminishing", according to a specialist in defence and internal affairs.

Earlier this week it was announced that the UK is sending the world's most advanced air defence missile to Ukraine after the country was hit by a wave of Russian air strikes. 

After Vladimir Putin ordered a wave of cruise missile and kamikaze drone strikes to avenge the attack on the Kerch bridge linking Russia and Crimea – the UK and other NATO nations announced they would be sending more weaponry to support Ukraine.

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The UK's contribution is the AIM-120 AMRAAMs – the most advanced medium-range air defence missile in the world.

Dr James Bosbotinis, a specialist in defence and internal affairs, highlighted the importance of the AMRAAM missile.

It's "designed to be carried by a wide range of fighters... and provide an air interception against air-breathing threats, aircraft, helicopters, unmanned systems and cruise missiles", he said.

They can also be surface fired using the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS).

The US has already supplied eight of these to Ukraine and it is NASAMS that will fire the missiles Britain is sending. 

Dr Bosbotinis added: "The Russians really are using already the best of what they've got.

"Their missile numbers are diminishing and their ability to replenish their missile stockpiles in the near term is limited."