Ukraine Drones Strike Deep Inside Russia, Hit Airbases

Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on Russian airbases, marking one of its most ambitious operations since the war began.

The coordinated strikes targeted multiple military airfields across five Russian regions, causing significant damage and disrupting Moscow's strategic aviation capabilities. This operation comes just before the next round of peace talks in Istanbul, adding a new layer of complexity to the already strained negotiations.

The success of this attack highlights Ukraine's growing ability to strike deep into Russian territory.

Top 5 Key Insights:

Strategic Airbase Targets: The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) targeted four key Russian airbases: Belaya in Irkutsk, Olenya in Murmansk, Dyagilevo in Ryazan, and Ivanovo. These bases house strategic bombers used in daily attacks on Ukrainian cities, including long-range Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers, as well as A-50 airborne early warning and control aircraft. The selection of these targets indicates a strategic effort to degrade Russia's long-range strike capabilities.

Complex Operation "Spider Web": The SBU's operation, codenamed "Spider Web," involved smuggling FPV drones into Russia and hiding them in mobile wooden cabins on trucks. These trucks were positioned near the airbases, and at the opportune moment, the drones were launched remotely to strike the Russian bombers.

This elaborate operation took a year and a half to plan and execute, showcasing Ukraine's meticulous preparation and resourcefulness.

Significant Aircraft Damage: Ukrainian sources claim that more than 40 Russian aircraft were hit, including strategic nuclear-capable bombers. The SBU estimates the damage inflicted on Russian aviation to exceed $7 billion, disabling 34% of cruise missile carriers at key Russian airbases. While the Russian Defense Ministry acknowledged the attacks, they downplayed the extent of the damage, stating that only several aircraft caught fire and that all fires were extinguished.

"Terrorist Attack" Designation: The Russian Defense Ministry has labeled the drone strikes as "terrorist attacks" carried out by the "Kyiv regime." They claimed that attacks on military airfields in the Ivanovo, Ryazan, and Amur regions were repelled.

This designation reflects Russia's attempt to frame the attacks as illegitimate acts of aggression rather than legitimate military operations during wartime.

Broader Implications for the Conflict: This large-scale drone attack demonstrates Ukraine's evolving capabilities and its willingness to take the war to Russian soil. The attacks not only inflict tangible losses on Russia's military but also send a strong message about Ukraine's resilience and determination. As peace talks approach, this operation could significantly influence the dynamics and negotiating positions of both sides.

Expert Insight:

SBU Source: "This is a turning point. Our drones are now reaching far into the enemy's rear, where the planes that drop bombs on our civilians take off. Their impunity is over."

Russian military aviation blogger Ilya Tumanov, known as Fighterbomber: “Today will later be called the dark day of Russia's long-range aviation. And the day is not over yet.”

Wrap-up:

The Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian airbases represent a significant escalation in the conflict, showcasing Kyiv's ability to strike deep within Russian territory.

This operation underscores the evolving nature of warfare and the increasing importance of drone technology. As the conflict continues, both sides are likely to adapt their strategies and tactics, leading to further innovation and unpredictability on the battlefield.

Author Bio:

Arjun Kapoor has dedicated 13 years to exploring scientific breakthroughs, national security matters, and agricultural developments. His reporting bridges the gap between complex research and everyday implications for citizens.

Citations: Explosions in Ukraine as massive drone attack hits Russia; air base, Moscow under fire