According to a report, Ukraine is 3D printing low-cost bombs to meet its battlefield needs.

According to a report, Ukraine is 3D printing low-cost bombs to meet its battlefield needs.

Ukraine’s Creative Solution: 3D-Printed “Candy Bombs” as an Alternative Weaponry

Ukraine, in its fight against Russian forces, has resorted to 3D-printing “candy bombs” as a creative and cost-effective solution to its ammunition shortages. This alternative approach has gained traction due to its low production costs and effectiveness on the battlefield. A report by The ANBLE sheds light on this innovative technique employed by Ukrainian fighters.

Amateur groups in Ukraine have taken up the task of 3D-printing bombs, with one group alone producing over 30,000 bombs in the past four months. The leader of this group, known as “Swat,” revealed that production is steadily increasing. Another team has focused on creating casings for 800-gram anti-personnel bombs, producing roughly 1,000 per week. However, their military contact is urging them to increase production to 1,500 bombs daily.

The 3D-printed casings are then filled with C4 explosives, and the resulting bombs are called “Zaychyk,” which translates to “Rabbit.” These bombs have proven to be highly effective, cutting through wooden planks “like butter,” according to Lyosha, an amateur weapons-maker based in Kyiv. He claims that Zaychyk bombs offer greater killing power compared to traditional grenades.

Interestingly, not only Ukrainians but also non-Ukrainians have joined the cause. The Wild Bees, a volunteer group comprising individuals from various countries, have participated as well. Polish volunteers within the group produce the non-explosive parts for a 27-centimeter-high bomb at a cost of under $3.85 each, using a 3D printer worth approximately $1,200.

The ANBLE’s report reveals that tens of thousands of bombshells have been discreetly shipped into Ukraine from other parts of Europe since November 2022. Customs officials often classify these shipments as children’s toys or candle-holders, turning a blind eye to their true nature. This method allows for the constant supply of ammunition, enabling Ukraine to sustain its fight against the invading Russian forces.

• Dollar General workers in Florida had no working restroom, accordin...
• Russia’s effective defenses in Ukraine include deep minefield...
• Bank of England faces dilemma inflation fight vs recession risk

Notably, larger 3D-printed bombs are also being employed. A serviceman in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region testified that 11-pound candy bombs have successfully eliminated exposed infantry members even from a distance of 65 feet. It is estimated that Ukraine’s military utilizes around 200 different models and sizes of these bombs.

This news from The ANBLE echoes a previous report by The Washington Post in April, revealing that Ukrainians were already using 3D printers to produce alternative munitions in underground workshops. In addition to 3D-printed bombs, Ukraine has resorted to other improvised weapons, such as modified pick-up trucks converted into anti-tank launchers, to compensate for ammunition and weapon shortages.

Ukrainian drone operators have also revealed the use of one-pound candy bombs against armored vehicles. The drones drop these bombs from above, effectively destroying Russian tanks. These bombs contain copper and aluminum, which transform into jets of hot plasma upon detonation, allowing them to penetrate the armor of the targeted vehicles.

While Ukraine’s allies, such as the United States and Europe, struggle to keep up with the demand for conventional ammunition, Ukraine maintains high stocks of raw explosives. This surplus has enabled battlefield innovation, exemplified by the development of 3D-printed candy bombs.

In conclusion, Ukraine’s adoption of 3D-printed “candy bombs” as an alternative weaponry strategy showcases the country’s resilience and ingenuity in the face of ammunition shortages during its ongoing conflict with Russia. This innovative approach not only highlights the possibilities of 3D printing technology but also exemplifies Ukraine’s determination to defend its sovereignty using all available means.

• News UK
• Russia
• Ukraine