Ukrainian strike cripples key Russian assets in Crimean base attack
The attack on the Belbek Crimean base, executed using ATACMS missiles, was exceptionally successful. Even the Russians admit to losing aircraft like the MiG-31 the S-300, and S-400 anti-aircraft systems.
On the night of May 14 to 15, Ukrainians attacked the Belbek airbase in Crimea. Although there is currently no reliable data on the scale of the attack, it must have been significant. According to residents, up to 20 explosions were heard, and the Russians – albeit one must consider the propaganda – boast of shooting down as many as 10 missiles.
They didn't intercept all of them, as indicated by other Russian sources—valuable equipment was destroyed as a result of the attack.
The list includes, among other things, a destroyed MiG-31, three damaged Su-27s, and systems responsible for the base's security: S-300 and newer S-400 launchers, support vehicles, and a 92N6E fire control radar working with the S-400.
It is not yet known which variant of the MiG-31 was destroyed. One possibility is the MiG-31BM, a modernized interceptor with a new radar station and integrated new R-37 missiles.
The other probable variant of the destroyed MiG is the MiG-31K, adapted to carry Ch-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missiles. In both versions, it is the fastest combat aircraft currently operated globally.
The previous MiG-31, which the Russians lost at the Belbek base, was a MiG-31BM variant that ran off the runway. As noted by Defence24, the latest available satellite images indicate that before the Ukrainian attack, at least eight combat aircraft were in unshielded positions at the base.
According to residents, several explosions were heard a few minutes after the attack, which the destruction of ammunition depots could probably explain.
This is confirmed by satellite reconnaissance – NASA data from the FIRMS (Fire Information for Resource Management System) showed at least five fire spots in the base area.
