Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) conducted a successful long-range drone operation, codenamed “Spiderweb,” targeting four Russian airfields. The operation, planned for over 18 months and personally overseen by President Zelensky, resulted in significant damage to approximately 40 Russian aircraft, including A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M3 bombers, estimated at $7 billion. All SBU operatives involved were safely recovered, and the operation is considered a major Ukrainian victory.
Read More
A drone strike reportedly targeted the Shahed drone factory in Yelabuga, Tatarstan on May 25th, 2025, representing a significant long-range attack approximately 1200 km from the Ukrainian border. The facility, producing Shahed-type drones used in attacks against Ukraine, has been struck multiple times previously. While official statements remain absent, reports indicate explosions near the factory and the temporary closure of a nearby airport. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones overnight.
Read More
A drone strike on April 28th targeted the Kremniy-El electronics plant in Bryansk, Russia, a facility crucial for Russian military hardware production. Bryansk Oblast Governor Alexander Bogomaz reported a large-scale drone attack, claiming 102 drones were intercepted. While Ukrainian official Andrii Kovalenko linked the attack to the plant, Ukrainian forces haven’t officially commented, and reports remain unverified. The attack caused fires, explosions, and civilian casualties, highlighting continued Ukrainian efforts to disrupt Russian military capabilities.
Read More
In less than six weeks, Houthi rebels in Yemen have shot down seven U.S. Reaper drones, costing over $200 million. This escalating conflict prompted increased U.S. airstrikes targeting over 800 Houthi sites since March 15th, resulting in the deployment of two aircraft carriers to the region. Simultaneously, concerns are rising regarding civilian casualties from these strikes, with senators questioning the adequacy of harm mitigation measures. The Houthis continue to launch attacks on both military and civilian vessels in the Red Sea.
Read More
Ukrainian forces successfully targeted a key Russian drone operations facility near Tyotkino, eliminating up to 20 drone operators and disrupting a significant hub for UAV attacks against Ukraine. This followed the downing of a costly Russian “Forpost” drone by a Ukrainian FPV drone. These actions, coupled with a previous strike on the Shaikovka airbase, demonstrate a continued Ukrainian strategy of targeting Russian military infrastructure involved in the war effort. The Ukrainian General Staff affirmed the intention to continue such operations.
Read More
A drone strike on Russia’s Shaikovka airbase on March 31, 2025, significantly damaged infrastructure crucial for Kh-22 and Kh-32 missile operations. Satellite imagery reveals the destruction of missile storage facilities and a technical building used for missile preparation and fueling. Despite Russian claims of intercepting all drones, the attack rendered stationary fueling stations unusable and caused substantial damage to a depot near aircraft parking. The strike targeted the 52nd Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiment, known for using these missiles against Ukraine.
Read More
President Sheinbaum firmly rejected potential U.S. drone strikes targeting Mexican cartels, emphasizing Mexico’s non-subordinate stance and its commitment to collaboration, not interference. While agreeing to increased intelligence gathering flights, Sheinbaum underscored that unilateral military action would severely damage U.S.-Mexico relations and hinder cooperation on crucial issues like immigration and drug smuggling. Experts warn such strikes could provoke strong domestic backlash in Mexico, potentially leading to severed diplomatic ties. This opposition comes despite recent increased cooperation and Mexico’s own stepped-up efforts against cartels.
Read More
On March 27, the Ukrainian Air Force targeted the Pogar border checkpoint in Russia’s Bryansk Oblast, resulting in the destruction of military infrastructure and the deaths of 15 to 40 Russian soldiers. This strike, a reprisal for ongoing Russian drone attacks on Ukrainian civilians, neutralized a key launch point for drones targeting Sumy and Kursk oblasts. The destroyed infrastructure included communication, electronic warfare, and surveillance systems. The action underscores the ongoing conflict and escalating tensions despite a recent partial truce agreement.
Read More
On March 20th, a Ukrainian drone strike on the Engels airbase destroyed 96 Kh-101 cruise missiles, representing two months of production and costing Russia an estimated $960 million. This attack, the third on Engels in ten weeks, targeted missiles intended for use against Ukrainian cities. While the damage inflicted is substantial, the long-term military effectiveness of these deep strikes remains questionable, with analysis suggesting many previous attacks on munitions depots had limited impact. Ukraine’s current reliance on its own deep-strike arsenal, while impressive, may not be sufficient for sustained attacks on key Russian infrastructure.
Read More
A Russian drone strike severely damaged the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at Chernobyl, impacting 50% of the northern roof and other critical areas. Greenpeace’s assessment reveals significant structural damage, including to the crane system, compromising the NSC’s functionality. Water and snow ingress pose further corrosion risks. Repairs may require the NSC’s costly relocation and reconstruction, mirroring the initial project’s massive expense.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker