Ukrainian intelligence officials announced on Monday that they successfully destroyed two Russian fighter jets inside a hangar at an airfield in western Russia over the weekend. The operation involved an agent who infiltrated the facility undetected.
Details of the Attack
According to Ukraine's military intelligence directorate (GUR), the targeted aircraft were two Su-30 models, with an estimated combined value reaching $100 million. The GUR stated that the agent studied patrol routes and guard schedules for two weeks before executing the attack and leaving without detection.
This incident represents another in a series of Ukrainian claims regarding successful strikes against Russian aircraft, even at bases located hundreds of miles from active combat zones. Independent verification of these claims has not been possible.
Broader Implications
The ongoing conflict has highlighted vulnerabilities in airbase security, with neither side achieving complete air superiority. Ukraine has employed various methods to target Russian aircraft, including drone attacks and covert operations.
Western military analysts have expressed concern about the implications for their own defense systems, particularly regarding protection against similar tactics from potential adversaries. The effectiveness of relatively inexpensive drones against high-value military assets has prompted reevaluation of air defense strategies within NATO.
Russia has also demonstrated capability in destroying Ukrainian aircraft and conducting long-range attacks throughout the conflict, contributing to the war's protracted nature.
