Open source images from March 31 show debris from missiles that fell in a field in Saratov region, southern Russia. They were initially thought to be parts of a possible Ukrainian drone, but closer inspection revealed that the debris was most likely from a Russian AS-23a KODIAK (X-101) air-launched cruise missile. This is stated in the latest intelligence report of the Ministry of Defense of Great Britain.
It is noted that the fragments are highly likely to be the result of failure of a KODIAK missile fired at Ukraine earlier that morning.
British intelligence adds that the Saratov region is a known launch pad for Russian long-range bombers. Engels Air Base is also located there, where several of the bombers are stationed.
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The AS-23a KODIAK is the main Russian precision missile. It has a range of approximately 4,000 km and has been widely used against Ukraine, and has recently been involved in attacks on energy infrastructure across the country.
According to British intelligence, the likely malfunction of such a prestigious missile indicates problems in its production, possibly as a result of sanctions and a hasty implementation to meet needs in the conflict.