Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has unleashed a sophisticated drone offensive, dubbed "Web" or "Pavutina," targeting Russia's strategic air assets and dealing a devastating blow to its military aviation, according to the Kyiv Independent. "Enemy strategic bombers are burning en masse in Russia – this is the result of a special operation by the SBU," an SBU insider revealed. The meticulously planned strikes damaged or destroyed over 40 aircraft, including A-50 early warning planes, Tu-95 strategic bombers, and Tu-22 M3 long-range bombers, showcasing Ukraine's advanced reach into Russian territory.
The operation hit four critical Russian air bases – Belaya in Irkutsk Oblast, Diaghilevo, Olenya in Murmansk Oblast, and Ivanovo, the Kyiv Independent detailed. Footage shared with the outlet captured blazing rows of heavy bombers at an unspecified site, highlighting the attack's audacity. At Belaya, home to seven Tu-160 and seven Tu-95MS bombers, Irkutsk Governor Igor Kobzev confirmed a drone strike on a military unit in Sredny village, though he remained tight-lipped on specifics.
Video: Russian bombers following the attack by Ukraine / Credit: Social media
Social media reports, noted by the Kyiv Independent, hinted at fires raging at Olenya air base in Murmansk Oblast, with Governor Andrey Chibis acknowledging a drone attack without elaborating. Led by SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk, the operation targeted planes that relentlessly bomb Ukrainian cities, with the source stating, "Right now, the Security Service of Ukraine is conducting a large-scale special operation to destroy enemy bomber aircraft in the rear of the Russian Federation."
The Kyiv Independent estimated damages exceeding $2 billion, a severe setback for Russia's air capabilities. While the SBU kept drone specifications under wraps, unverified claims suggested FPV drones, possibly launched from vehicles near the targets, were used. Ukraine's March announcement of a 3,000-kilometer [1,864-mile] range drone underscores its technological edge, though its involvement remains unconfirmed.
The A-50, vital for air defense detection, missile guidance, and fighter coordination, was a priority target, the Kyiv Independent reported. This operation, among the SBU's most ambitious, signals a turning point in Ukraine's ability to strike deep into Russia, with further assessments expected to confirm even greater losses. Russia's Ministry of Defense has yet to respond, but the strategic impact reverberates across the conflict.
