Ukrainian drones strike deep into Russian airbase territory
The airport in Adygea, near Krasnodar and close to the Black Sea coast, is about 400 kilometres from the front line. Despite this distance, the Ukrainians successfully attacked the facility. Earlier rumours suggested it was a training facility, but satellite images disprove this idea.
Adygea was the target of a recent attack by Ukrainian armed forces against the Russian aggressor. The location was strategically chosen as it hosts one of the Russian Federation's military bases. Initially thought to be a military school, satellite images revealed that the Ukrainians struck a much more valuable target — a base where important aircraft are stored.
A strong strike on the Russian airport
Local authorities in Adygea confirmed that Ukrainian long-range drones hit the airbase, travelling approximately 400 kilometres. It was also reported that the shelling caused a fire, and there were mentions of the destruction of "something very important" — according to the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. This is further confirmed by the authorities' decision to evacuate village residents adjacent to the airport.
Current satellite images provided by ESA show that the airport in Adygea is now a military facility. It is known which aircraft were stationed at the facility before the shelling. Defense Express notes that Su-30, Su-45, and Su-35 can be seen in the satellite images. However, training aircraft like the L-39 were not observed, and all mentioned Su fighters have blue camouflage used by frontline machines.
Three different aircraft models
The attacked airport housed, among other things, the Su-30, an aircraft developed from the iconic Su-27 and introduced into service in the 1980s. The Su-30 is characterized by high manoeuvrability and the ability to engage in close-range air combat. Equipped with two AL-31FP engines and front canards, it can perform complex aerial manoeuvres.
The Su-34 was developed based on the Su-27, primarily with a reinforced structure and a two-seat cockpit. The Su-34 can carry a wide range of air-to-ground weaponry, including FAB bombs with a UMPK module, enabling precise long-distance attacks.
The Su-35 is an evolution of the Su-27, equipped with the latest technologies and more powerful AL-41F1 engines. Its main differences from its predecessors include an improved avionics system and advanced radar, which significantly increase its combat capabilities. As a result, the Su-35 can detect and destroy targets at longer ranges.
The Su-30, Su-34, and Su-35 play key roles in Russian military aviation. Each is distinguished by unique features and capabilities that cater to various operational needs. The Su-30 excels as a multi-role fighter, the Su-34 as a tactical bomber, and the Su-35 represents the latest evolution of air superiority fighters.
