34% of Russian strategic missile bombers at main airfields damaged in Ukrainian drone operation, SBU reports

The Ukrainian drone operation, codenamed "Spiderweb," has significantly impacted Russia's strategic missile bomber fleet. The following presents a detailed analysis of the operation's outcomes and implications: 1. **Damage to Strategic Bombers**: - The operation targeted four major Russian airfields, including Belaya, Olenya, Diaghilev, and Ivanovo. - A total of 41 aircraft were damaged or destroyed, accounting for approximately 34% of Russia's strategic cruise missile bomber fleet. - The affected aircraft include the A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22 M3, which are crucial for long-range attacks. 2. **Economic Impact**: - The damages caused by the operation amount to an estimated $7 billion. - This figure includes the loss of operational capability for a significant portion of Russia's strategic air force. 3. **Operational Details**: - The operation utilized 117 first-person-view (FPV) drones, which were covertly transported into Russia and launched from commercial cargo trucks. - The planning for this attack had been in progress for over a year and a half, indicating a high level of preparation and strategic intent. 4. **Russian Responses and Implications**: - Russia has not yet made a public response to the attacks, although it is likely to affect Russian strategic planning and potentially trigger countermeasures. - The strikes highlight the vulnerability of large military assets, including nuclear-capable bombers, to drone attacks. - This event underscores the evolving nature of warfare, where non-state actors and asymmetric tactics can significantly impact military powers. The "Spiderweb" operation represents a significant tactical setback for Russia, compromising a substantial portion of its strategic missile delivery capability. This development is likely to influence the balance of power in the region and prompt Russia to reassess its military strategies in response to the new threat paradigm posed by drone warfare.