Russia's air force is struggling to hit targets in Ukraine, but its missiles can still keep Ukraine's jets at bay

• Limited numbers of guided air-to-ground munitions hinder Russia's ability to conduct airstrikes.
• However, more potent air-to-air missiles are helping Russian jets keep Ukrainian aircraft at bay.
• Both sides are using air-launched weapons at a rate that is striking to experts observing the war.

Russia's air force is having better luck hitting targets in the air than on the ground.

Limited quantities of guided air-to-ground munitions have hindered Russia's ability to carry out effective airstrikes. However, a potent mix of air-to-air missiles — some of which out-range their Ukrainian counterparts — have helped keep Ukrainian aircraft at bay.