Ukraine’s military has successfully destroyed a Russian Buk-M3 air defense system, a significant loss for Moscow’s forces, the Ukrainian General Staff reported on February 25.
In addition to the Buk-M3 strike, Ukrainian missile and artillery units targeted Russian troop concentrations, weapon stockpiles, and a command post, further crippling enemy operations.
The Buk-M3, a state-of-the-art medium-range air defense system, plays a vital role in shielding Russian ground forces from Ukrainian aerial attacks. First deployed in 2016, it is designed to intercept targets up to 70 kilometers away and at altitudes of 35,000 meters.
The destruction of the system—estimated to cost $45 million—is both a financial and strategic blow to Russia’s military.
The Buk-M3’s advanced design includes new sealed cylindrical launch containers, an upgrade from the older Buk-M2 model. The system allows Russian forces to launch missiles from deep within occupied territory, making it a high-value target for Ukraine’s military.
Another Blow to Russia
In a separate operation, Ukrainian forces took out a rare Russian BAT-2 engineering vehicle. This Soviet-era military bulldozer, based on the MT-T tractor chassis, was developed in Kharkiv and produced in limited numbers.
The BAT-2 is used for clearing obstacles, building fortifications, and preparing defensive positions, making its destruction another tactical victory for Ukraine.
