Ukraine has neutralised more than 40 Russian bomber aircraft through a large-scale drone assault on strategic airbases deep within Russian territory. The operation, reportedly in planning for over a year, has inflicted an estimated $7 billion in damages on Moscow.
According to reports citing the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the attacks specifically targeted long-range strategic bombers such as the A-50, TU-95, and TU-22—aircraft known to play an active role in missile strikes against Ukraine.
One of the most striking aspects of the operation was its reach, extending as far as remote regions like Siberia. Ukrainian sources state that drones, hidden on trucks, were covertly transported up to 4,000 kilometres into Russia. Once the trucks’ roofs were remotely opened, the drones were activated and struck their designated targets with high precision.
The timing of the attacks also drew attention, occurring just ahead of peace talks in Istanbul, amid renewed escalations between Ukraine and Russia. Sources speaking to the Ukrainian media emphasised that the operation delivered both a deterrent and a strategic message.
Officials have described the strikes as among the most effective efforts yet to weaken Russia’s air power. This sophisticated operation, orchestrated by the SBU, is considered capable of altering the course of the war.
