Ukrainian officials revealed to the Associated Press (AP) that they successfully neutralized six aircraft stationed at the Morozovsk military airbase, while eight others sustained damage. Tragically, this operation resulted in the loss of 20 service personnel. Among the aircraft present at the base were Su-34 fighter-bombers and Su-27 fighters.
Reports indicate that Ukraine carried out what could potentially be one of the most extensive drone assaults of the ongoing conflict.
According to sources within Ukraine, they claim to have targeted and destroyed at least six Russian fighter jets, with an additional eight being damaged. The attack reportedly occurred during the early hours of Friday at the Morozovsk military airbase in Rostov, as disclosed by unnamed Ukrainian officials speaking to various news agencies.
Russia acknowledged a significant drone attack, citing the involvement of 44 drones. However, they asserted that all drones were intercepted, with only a power substation suffering damage. Discrepancies in casualty reports and damage assessments between Russia and Ukraine are not uncommon in such situations.
The defense ministry of Russia mentioned that additional regions, including Saratov, Kursk, Belgorod, and Krasnodar, were targeted in the assault. Video footage purportedly showing part of the attack was shared on Telegram by former Ukrainian political advisor Anton Gerashchenko.
Independent verification of the reports by Business Insider wasn't feasible at the time of reporting. The specific types of aircraft destroyed weren't specified, although sources suggested the presence of Su-34 fighter-bombers, Su-27 fighters, and Su-24 bombers at the base.
Aside from the six destroyed aircraft, eight more were reportedly damaged, with approximately 20 Russian soldiers sustaining casualties, according to sources. Ukrainian officials emphasized the significance of this operation in reducing the combat capability of Russian forces.
Vasily Golubev, governor of the Rostov district, noted injuries resulting from an explosive device detonation on a fallen UAV, alongside damage to an electrical substation in the Morozovsky district.
Requests for comment from representatives of the Ukrainian military, Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and the Russian military remained unanswered by Business Insider.
If confirmed, this drone strike marks a significant triumph for Ukraine. However, the situation on the ground remains challenging, with a $60 billion aid package for Ukraine currently stalled in a congressional deadlock.
In an exclusive interview with Business Insider, two Ukrainian soldiers emphasized the importance of continued support from allies, underlining the potential risks to Europe if Ukraine's defense is weakened.