Massive Ukrainian drone strike hits Russian air base, 40 aircraft reportedly downed

In one of the most brazen attacks since the war started, Ukraine has purportedly conducted a mass drone attack against Russian military facilities, destroying over 40 planes. In a report by Reuters, which quoted Ukraine's internal security agency the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) the raid chiefly targeted planes usually employed by Russia in launching long-range missile strikes on Ukrainian soil.

SBU asserts strikes on Russian critical strategic aircraft

The SBU said strategic bombers like the Tu-95 and Tu-22, with the capability to carry cruise missiles, were targeted in the drone attack. These planes have been in constant use by the Russian military over the last few months to attack civilian and energy targets throughout Ukraine. Success with this mission, if confirmed, would be a game-changer in Ukraine's ability to attack Russia's air capabilities deep behind the frontlines.

Multiple Military installations experienced explosions

Explosions have been reported at a military outpost in Sredny, a Russian settlement in the Irkutsk region, regional governor Igor Kobzev reports. He confirmed that the military base was targeted by Ukrainian drones, although complete damage reports remain in progress. Videos posted online by residents and news outlets indicate that the explosions caused massive clouds of smoke, suggesting potential destruction of fuel or ammunition depots.

Olenya air base under attack in Russian Arctic

At the same time, there were reports of another suspected drone attack near Russia's Olenya Air Base in the Murmansk region. Belarusian alternative media NEXTA published a video of the aftermath of the attack, with smoke and fire visible alongside the base. Olenya is home to aircraft that can deliver nuclear warheads and is one of Russia's most strategically significant air bases.

No Official confirmation yet, but implications could be major

Although these assaults have not been officially confirmed by Russian defense officials, if accurate, they would be one of the most sensitive and extensive Russian strikes since the launch of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Targeting aircraft employed for strategic bombing operations, particularly at a base with nuclear capabilities, highlights Ukraine's developing drone capabilities and generates fresh concerns regarding the scope of such attacks in the future.