**Ukraine’s Air Force Makes Breakthrough in Occupied Donbas**
The Ukrainian military has made significant progress in breaching Russian air defenses in occupied Donbas, a region in eastern Ukraine. According to Roman Svitan, a reserve colonel of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and flight instructor, this breakthrough was demonstrated by a recent strike on a Russian command post in Lysychansk.
Svitan noted that Lysychansk is a significant distance from the frontlines, indicating that the Ukrainian military has established an air defense system to protect its aircraft. He suggested that the command post may have been struck using HIMARS missiles, which are capable of penetrating strong enemy defenses.
**Russian Air Defenses Strengthened Over 10 Years**
The expert emphasized that Russia has been developing its air defense system in occupied Donbas for over a decade, making it extremely difficult for Ukrainian aircraft to approach. The region’s geographical features, including mountains reaching heights of 300-350 meters, give enemy surface-to-air missile systems and other related weaponry significant advantages.
**Complex Operation to Down Russian Aircrat**
Earlier, Svitan explained how Ukrainian forces managed to carry out a complex operation by downing a Russian A-50 long-range radar detection and control aircraft using a Soviet-era S-200 missile. The expert highlighted the difficulty of refueling this missile, which requires an entire train to be sent to the launch site.
**Commentary**
This breakthrough in occupied Donbas is a significant development for the Ukrainian military, indicating its growing capabilities and willingness to take on strong enemy defenses. While the Russian air defense system remains formidable, the Ukrainian Air Force’s success in breaching it shows that they are learning from previous experiences and adapting their tactics.
In addition, this development highlights the importance of geography in modern warfare. The mountains and terrain of occupied Donbas have given the Russians an advantage, but the Ukrainians have found ways to overcome these challenges.
**Analysis**
This breakthrough also underscores the need for the Ukrainian military to continue developing its air defense system and capabilities. As they move forward, they will likely face increasingly sophisticated enemy defenses, making it essential for them to stay ahead of the curve.
Ultimately, this development is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people in the face of overwhelming odds. As they continue to push back against Russian aggression, their military’s growing capabilities will be crucial in achieving success.
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