New Dhaka Times: Desk Report
Ukraine has claimed that through a “large-scale special operation,” it has managed to destroy or damage more than 40 Russian strategic bombers. Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) described the operation as one of the most daring actions against the Russian Air Force.
A video footage released by the SBU shows a drone attack on Belaya Airbase in the Irkutsk region of Siberia. Explosions and plumes of smoke are clearly visible in the video. Several damaged Russian warplanes are seen lying at the site. The agency stated that the drone strike was strategically planned to hit Russia’s bomber aircraft. They say this is a clear reflection of Ukrainian drone technology’s success and boldness.
In addition to Belaya, Ukraine claims that a drone strike was also carried out on Olenya Airbase in the Murmansk region of northern Russia. Russian state media has also acknowledged the attack, stating that Russia’s air defense systems were active and attempts were made to repel the attack.
The SBU said this operation marks a significant milestone in the history of the war. It not only aims to weaken Russia’s military capabilities but also demonstrates Ukraine’s ability to carry out direct operations deep inside Russian territory.
Analysts believe Russia’s strategic bombers are the main force behind missile and drone attacks on various Ukrainian infrastructures. Therefore, attacks on these airbases are highly significant from Ukraine’s defense perspective.
Meanwhile, Ukraine reported that Russia launched 472 drones and seven ballistic and cruise missiles over Ukraine last night. This is considered one of the largest drone attacks to date. However, Ukraine’s air defense forces claimed they were able to repel a large part of the attack and destroyed 385 aerial targets.
According to British media BBC, this drone warfare has reached a new level between the two countries. Ukrainian drones are now capable of successfully striking strategic targets inside Russia, not just limited to the frontlines.