The conflict in Ukraine continues to unfold as Ukrainian forces successfully executed a strategic attack on a Russian airbase located in Adygea, near Krasnodar and approximately 400 kilometers (248 miles) from the front lines.
Believed to be a Training Facility
This operation highlights the ongoing capabilities of the Ukrainian military to strike at critical Russian infrastructure, even from a distance.
Initially believed to be a training facility, satellite imagery has revealed that the site is, in fact, a vital military base housing important aircraft.
Local authorities in Adygea confirmed that long-range Ukrainian drones were responsible for the attack, which has resulted in a fire at the base and the destruction of "something very important," as reported by Ukrainian news outlet Defense Express and WP.
Following the attack, residents from a nearby village were evacuated, further indicating the seriousness of the situation.
Home Several Military Aircrafts
Recent satellite images provided by the European Space Agency (ESA) show that the Adygea airport is now confirmed to be a military installation.
Before the attack, the base was home to several types of aircraft, including the Su-30, Su-34, and Su-35. Interestingly, there were no training aircraft such as the L-39 spotted in the recent imagery. The presence of these aircraft is significant, as they are painted in blue camouflage typically reserved for frontline operations.
The Su-30, an evolution of the iconic Su-27 introduced in the 1980s, is known for its agility and close-range air combat capabilities. It features dual AL-31F engines and can perform complex aerial maneuvers.
The Su-34, developed from the Su-27 platform, boasts a reinforced structure and a two-person cockpit, allowing it to carry a wide array of air-to-ground weapons, including FAB bombs with UMPK modules for precise long-range strikes.
Meanwhile, the Su-35 represents the latest advancement in air superiority fighters, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and more powerful AL-41F1 engines. Its enhanced avionics and advanced radar significantly boost its combat effectiveness.
