Satellite photos show seven destroyed bombers on a Russian air base in eastern Siberia, according to Ukraine. The images, analyzed by the Associated Press, depict aircraft wreckage and scorched areas at the Belaya Air Base, a major installation for Russia’s long-range bomber force.
The planes parked on an apron beside a runway appear to be Tu-95 bombers and Tu-22Ms, which have been used in recent weeks to launch cruise missile strikes across Ukraine. Ukraine claims to have destroyed 41 Russian warplanes, including strategic bombers and combat aircraft, during a covert operation that was planned over 18 months.
Russia has denied the extent of the damage, claiming its own estimates are more accurate. The attack has dealt a significant blow to Russia’s air force and military prestige.
The photos show other aircraft at the base remain unscathed, while fires extinguished by Russian authorities were reportedly set ablaze again, according to official claims. Russian President Vladimir Putin has not commented on the issue.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-drone-attack-photos-destroyed-bombers-a27eb37cff14355acb8f9850e663c8bd