A drone attack struck near Russia’s Engels-2 air base in the Saratov region during the early hours of March 20, sending shockwaves through a site critical to Moscow’s long-range nuclear and conventional strike capabilities.
According to WP Tech, the base is home to Russia’s Tu-95MS and Tu-160 strategic bombers, which have played a major role in launching missile attacks against Ukraine since the beginning of the war.
The Ukrainian military reported that explosions began around 4:00 a.m., with thick smoke rising from an area roughly 10 km from the base, prompting evacuations in nearby buildings.
Locals in Saratov also reported hearing the blasts.
Russia’s Ministry of Defense claimed that 132 drones targeted various locations across Russia and Crimea, and that 54 were shot down.
Why Engels Air Base Matters
The Engels-2 airfield isn’t just another military installation — it is a cornerstone of Russia’s long-range deterrent force.
The base houses two of Russia’s most formidable bombers:
Tu-95MS "Bear": A Cold War-era turboprop bomber modernized to carry Kh-55, Kh-101, and Kh-102 cruise missiles, some with nuclear capability. It boasts a range of over 12,000 km.
Tu-160 "Blackjack", also known as the "White Swan" in Russia: The largest and fastest supersonic bomber in the world, capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional weapons at speeds over Mach 2.
Engels is one of the few bases in Russia equipped to service these bombers, with the necessary infrastructure, hangars, and maintenance facilities.
The base plays a central role in Russia’s nuclear triad and is a hub for patrol flights over the Arctic, Black Sea, and near NATO airspace.
