Ukraine launches massive drone assault, 40 aircraft destroyed

A massive drone assault has struck Russia’s military infrastructure, targeting key airbases and a submarine facility. Explosions rocked the Olenya airfield in the Murmansk region, setting four TU bombers ablaze. This airfield is a critical hub for Russia’s strategic aviation, making the attack a significant blow to Moscow’s military operations.

Reports indicate that two Russian airbases were hit, resulting in the destruction of 40 aircraft. The scale of the damage suggests a well-coordinated strike, likely aimed at crippling Russia’s aerial capabilities. Ukrainian sources claim responsibility, marking one of the most aggressive drone offensives since the start of the conflict.

The attack extended beyond Murmansk. The Governor of the Irkutsk Region, Igor Kobzev, confirmed the first UAV strike in Siberia. A military unit in the village of Sredniy was targeted, with drones reportedly launched from a truck. One drone struck an old building in Novomaltinsk, though the exact number of UAVs involved remains unclear.

Russian security forces have mobilized in response. FSB officers, emergency personnel, and National Guard fighters have been deployed to secure the affected areas. Kobzev assured the public that there is no immediate threat to civilians, but the scale of the attack has raised concerns about Russia’s ability to defend its airspace.

The implications of this strike are profound. Ukraine’s ability to penetrate deep into Russian territory signals a shift in the conflict. The destruction of strategic bombers and airbases could disrupt Moscow’s military operations, forcing a reassessment of its defensive strategies.

Sources:

https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-latest-more-than-40-russian-bombers-hit-in-drone-attack-video-shows-aftermath-of-deadly-russian-bridge-explosion-12541713

https://abcnews.go.com/International/russia-hits-ukraine-massive-drone-missile-barrage-amid/story?id=122173886

https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/kyiv-deaths-russia-ukraine-war-largest-drone-attack-1.7543242