Defence Q&A Launch Lines in Aviation

[AngelWer]

Can you please explain what launch lines are and what they depend on, for example, Tu-95 bombers launch X-101 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea, why can't they launch them, for example, from the Leningrad Region?

 

[Kartal1]

Can you please explain what launch lines are and what they depend on, for example, Tu-95 bombers launch X-101 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea, why can't they launch them, for example, from the Leningrad Region?

Before firing the missile there are some things that must be taken into consideration.

The likely reasons in these cases may be the following:

1. This route may be chosen in order to bypass an early warning radar network and better layered air defence system, where the enemy concentrated its efforts.
2. This route may be chosen in order to limit observability.
3. This route may be chosen in order to ensure mission flexibility by giving time to adjust the scope of the strike in mid-flight by choosing different target, employing further maneuvers, redirect or abort the strike.
4. Considerations related to the logistics.
5. Minimizing the risks for the crew, minimizing the chances for collateral damage due to a failed launch or malfunction, increase of chances for locating, collecting and/or demolition of missile remainings in result of a failed launch.