Ukrainian forces have executed a groundbreaking strike on the Russian air force, resulting in the destruction of over 40 aircraft. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the operation as "our most extensive endeavor" and disclosed that it had been meticulously planned for a year, six months, and nine days.
The assault was carried out using drones secretly transported in cargo trucks to the vicinity of several airbases, primarily in northern Russia. Notably targeted were the Belaya base in the Siberian region of Irkutsk and the Olenya Arctic airbase in Murmansk province, as reported by El País. Additionally, the Dyagilevo and Ivanovo airbases in the central regions of Ryazan and Ivanovo were also struck.
The Russian Ministry of Defense acknowledged an attack on a fifth airbase in the Siberian region of Amur, although they downplayed the overall impact, only conceding successful hits on Murmansk and Irkutsk. According to the BBC, strategic bombers with nuclear capability, such as the Tu-95 and Tu-22M3, along with early warning aircraft A-50, were among those damaged in the attack.
President Zelensky further clarified that those involved in this historic operation have long returned to Ukraine, contradicting Russian authorities who claim several perpetrators have been apprehended. The drones were concealed beneath wooden bungalow roofs carried by the trucks, which opened remotely to deploy the drones. The proximity of the drones to the bases likely prevented their interception.
Ukrainian sources estimate the inflicted damage at approximately 2 billion euros.
Impact of Ukrainian Drone Strikes on Russian Airbases
How many Russian aircraft were destroyed in the Ukrainian attack?
Over 40 Russian aircraft were destroyed in the Ukrainian operation.
Which Russian airbases were targeted in the Ukrainian drone strike?
The strike targeted airbases including Belaya in Irkutsk, Olenya in Murmansk, Dyagilevo, and Ivanovo, among others.
What was the estimated financial impact of the Ukrainian attack on Russian airbases?
The damage from the attack is estimated to be around 2 billion euros.