In a recent development, Ukrainian forces have launched an operation targeting a military airfield in Russia. The strike aimed at warplanes and glide-bomb facilities used for lethal attacks against Ukraine, as per a security source.
This action, carried out on Thursday night, is part of a broader effort described as a “sustained campaign to weaken the Russian Air Force,” akin to what Ukraine has achieved with Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.
The security source shared satellite images purportedly showing two SU-34 fighter-bombers at the Morozovsk airbase in southern Russia, along with a white structure pre-attack. Another image displayed the aftermath, indicating the destruction of both aircraft and the structure.
There has been no official confirmation of these strikes from Ukraine.
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Russian officials and local media have reported a drone attack in the city of Morozovsk, according to the Kyiv Independent news outlet.
‘Intense Attack’
Reports quoted the regional governor stating that Russian air defenses were subjected to an “intense attack,” leading to power outages in certain areas.
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According to the Ukrainian security source, the “precision strikes” focused on SU-34 jets and glide-bomb facilities at the airfield. The source, speaking anonymously, emphasized that these targets were selected to hinder Russia’s airstrike capabilities in the northeastern region of Kharkiv.
“This action will aid Ukraine’s efforts to push back the Russian ground forces from the temporarily occupied territories,” the source added.
In a prior incident in April, as highlighted by Sky News, the same airbase was targeted, with SU-34 jets engaging in glide-bomb attacks bearing the brunt of the strike.
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Satellite image of Morozovsk airbase taken on 28th March by Planet Labs PBC
The source claims that the Russian forces utilize these warplanes to target civilian infrastructure. Furthermore, the aircraft are equipped with glide-bomb technology, enabling them to release bombs from a distance, posing a significant threat.
“This strike is intended to cripple Russia’s ability to conduct such offensives in the future, aiding Ukrainian armed forces in pushing back the Russian ground forces with decreased exposure to aerial attacks,” as stated by the source.
