On Wednesday, satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press revealed the aftermath of a daring covert operation conducted by Ukraine. The images displayed seven destroyed bombers on the tarmac at a Russian air base located in eastern Siberia. This operation marks one of the most significant strikes in the ongoing conflict, showcasing Ukraine's capability to target critical Russian military assets.
The photographs, provided by Planet Labs PBC, illustrate extensive aircraft wreckage and scorched areas at the Belaya Air Base, a pivotal installation for Russia’s long-range bomber fleet. Among the wreckage, at least three Tu-95 bombers and four Tu-22M bombers appeared to be destroyed. The planes were parked on an apron adjacent to a runway, which is surrounded by grassland, emphasizing the scale of the damage inflicted during the strike.
According to Ukrainian officials, the operation resulted in the destruction or damage of a total of 41 Russian warplanes, which included both strategic bombers and various types of combat aircraft. This operation, which was reportedly in the planning stages for 18 months, delivered a significant blow to Russia’s air force and its military prestige. Analysts believe that such a decisive strike could alter the dynamics of the conflict.
In response to the operation, the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed that the attack caused several warplanes to catch fire at air bases located in the Irkutsk and Murmansk regions. However, the Ministry claimed that the fires were extinguished without further incident. Furthermore, reports indicated that Ukraine attempted to strike two additional air bases in western Russia and another in the Amur region of Russia’s Far East, but these attacks were reportedly repelled.
The Tu-95 bomber, a four-engine turboprop aircraft, was designed in the 1950s to rival the U.S. B-52 bomber and is capable of executing intercontinental missions. Meanwhile, the Tupolev Tu-22M, a sweep-wing twin-engine supersonic bomber, has also played a crucial role in Russia's military strategy throughout the conflict. Since the onset of the all-out war in February 2022, these heavy bombers have been employed to launch multiple waves of cruise missile strikes across Ukraine.
For decades, long-range bombers like the Tu-95 and Tu-22M have been integral components of the Soviet and Russian nuclear triad, which also includes land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles and nuclear-powered submarines equipped with ICBMs. These strategic bombers have conducted regular patrols around the globe, showcasing Moscow's nuclear capabilities and serving as a deterrent against potential adversaries.
This recent operation underscores the evolving nature of the conflict in Ukraine, demonstrating Ukraine's ability to strike deep within Russian territory and challenging the operational integrity of Russia's military establishment.
