Russia’s air force was dealt a massive blow when Ukraine launched a drone attack on its military bases.
The attack, code-named “Spider Web,” involved 117 drones that were smuggled into Russia and controlled remotely. They hit targets in five regions, including Murmansk, Arkhangelsk, and the Far East.
Ukraine’s security agency, the SBU, said the operation had been planned for over a year and a half. The drones were hidden in wooden boxes and transported by trucks to locations near the military bases.
A New Kind of Warfare
The drones were launched from the trucks and controlled by operators who were likely far away. This kind of attack is a new development in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Experts say the drones used in the attack were likely produced in Ukraine. The country has been developing its drone capabilities since the start of the war.
Targets Hit
The drones hit several Russian air bases, including
- the Engels-2 base in the Saratov region
- the Dyagilevo base in the Ryazan region
- and the Ivanovo base
Significant Damage
The attack damaged or destroyed several dozen Russian planes, including Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers. The Tu-95 is a long-range bomber that can carry nuclear missiles.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said the operation caused $7 billion in damage to Russia.
Impact on Russia
The attack is a significant blow to Russia’s air force. It could limit Russia’s ability to launch long-range bomber attacks on Ukraine.
Russia has not commented on the extent of the damage.