Ukrainian Drone Attack on Russian Air Bases
In a meticulously planned operation dubbed Operation Spider Web, Ukraine executed a large-scale drone attack on multiple Russian air bases, including a location in Siberia, approximately 4,000 km from the frontlines. This unprecedented aerial assault involved a swarm of drones and resulted in the destruction of significant assets, including 41 bomber aircraft.
Details of the Attack
- The operation was in planning for 18 months and struck at least five military airbases inside Russia on June 1.
- Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the results as "absolutely brilliant" and predicted their mention in history books.
- Specialized first-person view (FPV) drones were smuggled into Russia, hidden in mobile wooden cabins carried by trucks, with remotely opening roofs.
- Ukraine claims $7 billion in damages, asserting the destruction of numerous combat planes.
Russian Response and Outcomes
- According to the Russian defense ministry, Ukraine launched drone attacks on air bases in Murmansk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Ryazan, and Amur regions, with some strikes repelled.
- Approximately one-third of Russia's strategic bomber fleet was reported to be affected.
- Prominent aircraft destroyed included A-50 early-warning planes and Tu-22M3 and Tu-95 strategic bombers.
Strategic Implications and Analysis
- Experts like Alex Plitsas highlight the transformative impact of this attack on modern warfare tactics.
- Unlike previous drone operations near the Ukraine-Russia border, this attack featured small drones operating during daylight deep within Russian territory.
- The SBU, Ukraine's main security agency, orchestrated the attacks using over 100 quadcopter FPV drones.
- The drones utilized Russian mobile-telephone networks to send live footage back to operators in Ukraine.
Broader Military and Security Perspectives
- Thomas Shugart of the Center for New American Security emphasizes the feasibility of using drones for strategic deep strikes, potentially influencing global military defense strategies.
- The attack underscores the need for fortified shelters for key military assets to withstand drone attacks.