After a recent Ukrainian strike on the Olenya air base, Russia has taken extra steps to protect its strategic bombers, including a surprising tactic: placing tires around its Tu-22M3 bombers.
This unusual move is part of a broader effort to safeguard the base and its valuable aircraft from future strikes.
The Ukrainian attack on the Olenya base, which is located nearly 2,000 kilometers from the frontlines, demonstrated the increasing reach of Ukraine’s military capabilities.
The attack damaged two Tu-22M3 bombers, which are vital to Russia’s air capabilities.
Tech WP reports that the damage is considered a major setback for Russia, as repairs could take months.
Defending the Olenya Base
Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military intelligence, confirmed that Russia is boosting air defense at Olenya with both traditional anti-aircraft systems and more unconventional methods, including using tires to protect the bombers.
"In general, other methods are actively used, including rubber devices for the protection of fighters and strategic aviation. In particular, we are talking about tires," Yusov explained.
"In this way, they protect and plan to increase these improvised means—things that can be done without advanced modern technologies."
The Role of Tu-22M3 Bombers
The Tu-22M3 bombers are an upgraded version of older models and are essential to Russia's military strategy.
These planes can carry up to 24 tons of weapons, including Kh-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, Kh-22 Raduga cruise missiles, and a variety of guided and heavy bombs.
They also have a high cruising speed and can fly at an altitude of about 13 kilometers, making them effective for long-range bombing missions while avoiding most anti-aircraft systems.
Before the conflict in Ukraine, Russia had around 60 of these bombers.
