This article has been updated with additional details from a report by Unmanned Systems Forces commander Robert “Magyar” Brovdi. On April 25, Ukrainian drones successfully struck four Russian fighter jets at the Shagol airfield in Chelyabinsk, Russia, including two advanced Su-57s and an Su-34. These aircraft were located approximately 1,700 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, highlighting the extended range capabilities of Ukrainian drone technology. The destruction of these high-value assets is critical to diminishing Russia’s offensive capabilities and protecting civilian lives.
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On April 25, Ukraine’s Armed Forces conducted an operation targeting the Shagol airfield in Russia’s Chelyabinsk region, striking several advanced Russian military aircraft, including Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets and a Sukhoi Su-34. This strike, occurring approximately 1,700 kilometers from Ukraine’s border, aims to degrade Russia’s capacity to launch attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. Russia has recently intensified the deployment and combat roles of its Su-57 stealth fighters, incorporating them into multi-jet formations for deep-strike missions and testing new sophisticated aerial maneuvers and specialized guided weapons. Furthermore, intelligence reports indicate that a significant portion of firms manufacturing components for the Su-34 continue to operate without Western sanctions, potentially allowing them continued access to essential international technology and hardware.
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A recent incident at a Russian bomber aviation regiment led to the tragic deaths of a pilot and navigator. The ejection system of an aircraft, likely a Su-34 or Su-24, activated while parked inside a shelter, resulting in fatal injuries. The cause is likely linked to maintenance failures or accidental triggering, which can be seen as a rare but possible cause. This event follows the recent downing of a Ka-52 attack helicopter by friendly fire, further highlighting ongoing issues.
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Ukraine’s Air Force announced the downing of a Russian Su-34 fighter jet in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast during the early morning of September 25th. The warplane was reportedly launching guided aerial bombs at the city of Zaporizhzhia when it was shot down. This marks another instance of Ukrainian forces targeting the Soviet-era fighter-bomber. As Russian aerial attacks have increased, further intensification is anticipated as winter approaches.
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In a joint operation, Ukraine’s Security Service (SSU), Armed Forces, and Special Operations Forces successfully targeted the Marinovka airfield in Russia’s Volgograd Oblast, resulting in the destruction of two Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers and damage to two others. Long-range drones were employed in the attack, which also ignited a fire in the airfield’s technical maintenance area, a key location for aircraft preparation and repairs. The General Staff noted that Su-34s are the primary tactical aircraft used by Russia for strikes on Ukrainian positions and civilian areas, often equipped with guided aerial bombs.
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The recent reports of a Russian Su-34 supersonic fighter-bomber being shot down by an F-16 have sparked a range of emotions and reactions. As I read through the comments and opinions on this incident, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of fascination and concern about the situation unfolding in Ukraine. The idea that a decades-old F-16 could outmatch a relatively newer Su-34 is intriguing, to say the least. It goes to show that it’s not just about the equipment but also about the skill and strategy of the pilot behind the controls.
The discussion around this event is quite polarizing, with some seeing it as a victory for the side they support and others questioning the credibility of the reports.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker