**Ukraine’s Daring Drone Strike: New Footage Reveals Operation Spiderweb**
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has released new footage from the daring drone strike against four Russian military airfields, known as Operation Spiderweb. The operation took place on June 1 and showed Kyiv’s bravery in using mass drones to attack deep within Russian territory.
**Flying into Siberia: A Drone’s-Eye View**
The video, released by the SBU on June 7, shows the flight path of a first-person-view (FPV) drone from takeoff to the moment it strikes a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber at the Belaya air base in Siberia. The drone flies over 4,000 kilometers from its launch point, where smoke is already rising from planes struck earlier in the operation. The video also shows a previously hit Russian aircraft engulfed in flames.
**Planning and Execution: A Masterclass in Stealth**
Operation Spiderweb involved smuggling FPV drones deep into Russian territory, according to the SBU. The drones were hidden in mobile wooden cabins on trucks and remotely launched at the right moment to strike bombers used in missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. The operation took 18 months to plan and execute, showing Ukraine’s meticulous planning and execution.
**Impact: $7 Billion in Damage and a Blow to Russia’s Military**
The SBU said the strikes disabled 34% of Russia’s cruise missile bombers and inflicted approximately $7 billion in damage. Ukraine said the strike succeeded in damaging 41 planes, including Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers and rare A-50 spy planes. While open-source intelligence analysts have confirmed that at least 21 aircraft were damaged or destroyed.
**Commentary**
The new footage from Operation Spiderweb showcases Ukraine’s innovative use of drone technology to attack deep within Russian territory. The operation demonstrates Ukraine’s determination to protect its citizens from Russia’s brutal war and its willingness to take bold action against the aggressor. As President Volodymyr Zelensky said on June 7, Ukraine only used domestically produced drones in the attack.
**Analysis**
The success of Operation Spiderweb highlights the importance of investing in defense technology and innovation. Ukraine’s ability to plan and execute such a daring operation shows its commitment to protecting its citizens and defending its territory. The impact of the strike is significant, with substantial damage inflicted on Russia’s military capabilities. As the war between Ukraine and Russia continues, it will be essential for both sides to invest in defense technology and innovation to gain an upper hand.
**Conclusion**
The new footage from Operation Spiderweb provides a fascinating glimpse into Ukraine’s use of drone technology to attack Russian airfields. The operation demonstrates Ukraine’s bravery and determination to protect its citizens and defend its territory. As the war between Ukraine and Russia continues, it will be essential for both sides to invest in defense technology and innovation to gain an upper hand.
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