**Russian Airfield Damaged in Ukraine’s Drone Strike**
New satellite images have revealed the extent of damage to a Russian airfield in Irkutsk region. The photos, obtained by Ukrainian journalists from the “Schemes” project, show significant damage to seven strategic aviation aircraft.
The images, taken on June 4 by the Planet Labs satellite, reveal fire damage to at least three Tu-95 bombers and four Tu-22M3 bombers. This is a major blow to Russia’s military capabilities, as these aircraft play a crucial role in its defense strategy.
**Background: Operation “Spider Web”**
On June 1, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) carried out a daring operation against Russian military airfields using drones. The operation, code-named “Spider Web,” targeted four airfields: Olenya, Belaya, Dyagilevo, and Ivanovo. Among the aircraft hit were Russia’s A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M3 planes.
According to a source from the SBU speaking to Hromadske, the operation was over a year and a half in preparation. The SBU used creative tactics to smuggle drones into Russia, concealing them under mobile wooden houses. The roofs of these houses were remotely opened, allowing the drones to launch and strike their targets.
**Key Details**
* 41 Russian aircraft were hit during the operation, accounting for approximately 34% of the strategic cruise missile carriers stationed at the targeted airfields.
* The people involved in preparing the operation are already back in Ukraine, indicating that they successfully completed their mission.
* The damage to the Belaya airfield is a significant blow to Russia’s military capabilities, highlighting the effectiveness of Ukraine’s drone-based strategy.
**Analysis**
This operation demonstrates Ukraine’s growing sophistication and willingness to take bold action against its enemy. By using creative tactics and advanced technology, Ukraine has managed to inflict significant damage on Russia’s military infrastructure.
The success of Operation “Spider Web” also highlights the importance of intelligence gathering and strategic planning in modern warfare. The SBU’s ability to prepare for over a year and half, as well as their creative use of drones, demonstrates a high level of expertise and coordination.
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how each side adapts and responds to these developments. One thing is clear: Ukraine has demonstrated its ability to think outside the box and launch innovative attacks against its enemy.
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