Ukraine Drone Offensive: Over 40 Russian Warplanes, Nuclear Bombers Destroyed in Deep Strike

In a historic military operation, Ukraine launched a long-range drone strike deep inside Russian territory, targeting strategic airbases and reportedly destroying over 40 Russian warplanes, including nuclear-capable bombers. This marks one of the most significant Ukrainian drone attacks since the war began, signaling a new phase in aerial warfare.

The strike, which reached over 4,000 kilometers into Russia, was covertly executed, with drones transported in containers by trucks before being launched at key Russian airfields. Among the damaged aircraft were Tu-95 and Tu-22 bombers, critical components of Russia’s long-range strike capabilities.

How Ukraine Executed the Deep Strike- Destroyed 40 Russian Warplanes

According to Ukrainian security officials, the operation was meticulously planned for over 18 months and was personally supervised by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The drones were smuggled into Russia, hidden in cargo trucks, and launched from inside Russian territory, catching Moscow’s defenses off guard.

Key details of the attack:

• Targeted four Russian military air bases simultaneously.
• Destroyed strategic bombers used for launching cruise missiles.
• Marked the first Ukrainian drone strike in Russia’s Irkutsk region.

Video footage verified by Reuters showed Tu-95 bombers engulfed in flames, confirming the scale of destruction.

Russia’s Response & Escalation

In retaliation, Russia launched a record 472 drones at Ukraine, marking the largest drone offensive since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. Additionally, Russian forces fired seven missiles, intensifying the conflict.

Russian officials confirmed drone activity in Ryazan and Murmansk regions, but details remain scarce. Meanwhile, local governor Igor Kobzev acknowledged that a Ukrainian drone had reached Irkutsk for the first time, signaling a new threat to Russia’s air defenses.

Strategic Impact on the War

Ukraine’s long-range drone capabilities could reshape the battlefield, forcing Russia to rethink its aerial strategy. The destruction of nuclear-capable bombers weakens Moscow’s ability to launch long-range missile strikes, potentially shifting the balance of power.

Military analysts suggest that Ukraine’s drone warfare advancements could:

• Disrupt Russian air operations.
• Force Russia to relocate key assets further inland.
• Increase pressure on Moscow’s defense infrastructure.

Conclusion

Ukraine’s deep strike drone offensive marks a turning point in modern warfare, demonstrating unprecedented reach and precision. As both nations escalate their aerial campaigns, the conflict enters a new phase of strategic warfare.

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