Russian bombers moved closer to the Ukrainian border, images reveal

The latest satellite images of the Russian Olenya airbase, located just 200 kilometres from the borders of Finland and Norway, suggest that the Kremlin has decided to relocate a more significant number of strategic bombers here. Military analysts have noted that 12 Tu-95MS bombers, 13 Tu-22M3 bombers, one Tu-160, and two An-12 military transport planes are stationed here.

The satellite images showing Russian strategic bombers at the Olenya airbase are from May 15 this year. This is one of the main bases that the Russians use for conducting massive missile attacks on Ukraine.

Estimates from the UK Ministry of Defense and the Russian Ministry of Defense’s Main Intelligence Directorate indicate that the Kremlin possesses about 40 Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 bombers. This means that nearly one-third of this bomber fleet is currently located at the Olenya base. In contrast, it is worth remembering that at the end of April 2024, there were only six Tu-22M3 bombers at this base, as reported by Defence Express.

According to the service, the relocation of more bombers to the Olenya base suggests that Russia is most likely preparing for new attacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure. Additionally, such moves by the Kremlin may be motivated by the desire to protect the most valuable aircraft and concerns about potential long-range Ukrainian drone attacks. It is possible that the An-12 transport aircraft visible at the Olenya base are being used to deliver cruise missiles.

The Tu-95MS, Tu-22M3, and Tu-160 bombers are actively involved in conducting missile attacks on Ukraine. The first aircraft, the Tu-95 (NATO code: Bear), has been in service for over 70 years but still proves highly effective. The Tu-95MS version, produced by the Russians since 1992, is nearly 50 meters long, with a similar wingspan and a height of over 13 meters. Its payload capacity is 20,000 kilograms.

The Tu-95MS can fly at a speed of 830 kilometres per hour. The Russians have adapted it to carry various armaments, such as Kh-101 or Kh-65 cruise missiles. Its primary armament consists of two AM-23 onboard cannons and two double-barreled GSz-23 23 mm cannons in the tail.

The Tu-22M3 (NATO code: Backfire) is a modernized version of the Tu-22M bombers. The aircraft has received numerous upgrades, increasing its range to 6,800 kilometres and its maximum speed to 2,300 kilometres per hour. The payload capacity has also been increased. The takeoff weight of this bomber is 126,500 kilograms, of which 24,000 kilograms can be armament. For instance, the Tu-22M3 can carry Kh-22 Raduga and Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missiles, significantly challenging Ukrainian air defence.

The Tu-160 (NATO code: Blackjack), known unofficially as the "White Swan" due to its appearance, is a supersonic bomber with variable-sweep wings. It is considered the heaviest supersonic military aircraft in the world. Its production officially ended in 1994, but the aircraft remains in service. The Tu-160 is approximately 55 meters long, over 13 meters high, and has a wingspan of 35.6 meters. The bomber can carry 28,800 kilograms and fly up to 2,200 kilometres per hour.