Russia’s bomber fleet faces being crippled, after Ukraine followed up its devastating attack on airbases with strikes on aerospace industries critical to its maintenance. Last Sunday, Ukraine launched an audacious attack on Russia’s fleet of strategic bombers, many capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
The planes had been used to launch intense aerial bombardments on cities and towns across Ukraine, resulting in scores of civilians being killed or injured. The military operation involved swarms of drones concealed in trucks targeting airbases deep inside Russia and thousands of miles from the Ukraine border.
To date, Kyiv has confirmed that 25 of the bombers have been damaged or destroyed in Operation Spiderweb, which was over one year in the planning.
Ukraine’s military has followed up its stunning operation with another major coup, which potentially threatens the very existence of the remaining fleet.
Military hackers were able to breach the Tupolev Design Bureau, which designs and produces all Russian strategic bombers.
Ukrainian intelligence gained access to more than 4 gigabytes of sensitive data, giving them vital information on its strategic bombers designs and aircraft still operational.
This information treasure trove will help Ukraine’s military plan future precision strikes and combat operations against what remains of Russia’s strategic bomber fleet.
Ukraine has also stepped up its attacks on factories producing hi-tech components essential for the bomber fleet, as well as the missiles and bombs they fire.
The Avangard microchip and radio-electronics factory in Saint Petersburg was recently hit in an air raid.
The industrial site was engulfed by a huge blaze which covered around 100 square metres.
Avangard is listed by the Russians as one of the most strategically important facilities in the country.
It produces radio electronics, microchips, and communication systems used in ballistic and cruise missiles – among other things.
In another devastating attack, Ukrainian drones targeted the Bolkhov Semiconductor Device Plant, scoring multiple direct hits on the main building.
The explosions triggered extensive fires that spread across the facility, causing significant damage and putting the factory out of commission.
The plant produces critical components for Sukhoi fighter jets, Iskander ballistic missiles, and Kinzhal hypersonic missiles.
