Ukraine confirms use of US-made Copperhead laser-guided artillery munition
The Ukrainian armed forces have confirmed they are using the US-designed M712 Copperhead, a laser-guided 155mm artillery munition, in combat.
The 47th Separate Mechanised Brigade has fired the precision-guided munition, with reports stating it successfully struck a Russian army observation post at an undisclosed location.
The Copperhead is designed for high-precision strikes, guided by a laser beam that locks onto a designated target, with its primary intention to destroy enemy command posts, ammunition depots and concealed vehicles.
The weapon was developed in the 1970s and was later retired from US Army service, making its appearance on the battlefield today unexpected.
It has several advantages. The shell has an effective range of between 3km (1.9 miles) and 16km (9.9 miles) and is resistant to electronic interference, unlike GPS-guided munitions which are vulnerable to jamming.
This marks the first confirmed use of the Copperhead by Ukraine, though the munition has seen combat in past conflicts.
While no longer in production, the shell was likely sourced from older stockpiles.
Unlike the M982 Excalibur, a GPS-guided 155mm artillery shell also used by Ukraine, the Copperhead does not rely on satellite navigation, making it more effective in environments where GPS signals are jammed.
The Excalibur offers greater range, but its dependence on GPS makes it susceptible to Russian electronic warfare tactics.
As Ukraine continues to receive Western military aid, the addition of long-range, precision-guided munitions remains a crucial factor in its ability to target key Russian positions while minimising ammunition wastage.
The Copperhead's arrival on the battlefield, though unexpected, suggests that Ukraine is making use of every available resource to maintain its defensive and offensive operations.
Join Our Newsletter
