The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Ukrainian Armed Forces have conducted the largest drone attack on Russian airfields since the beginning of the war. According to sources from UNIAN, the night of August 15 was particularly intense for Russian military airfields in Voronezh, Kursk, Savasleyka, and Borisoglebsk. This operation was carefully planned to prevent the use of these airfields for airstrikes on the front line and Ukrainian cities.
Strategic Objective: Weakening Russian Aviation
An insider from the SBU revealed that Ukrainian special services are systematically diminishing the air power of the Russian military. Air superiority remains a significant advantage for the enemy, but Ukrainian forces are steadily “cutting the wings” of these aircraft.
The attack on the Savasleyka airfield was especially critical. Drones reportedly targeted fuel depots for MiG-31K fighters. Explosions and fires at these depots, according to Defence Express, could significantly limit Russian aviation capabilities, particularly in performing high-altitude flights and launching hypersonic missiles like the “Kinzhal.”
Fire at the Airfield: Potential Consequences
NASA’s satellite service recorded a massive fire at the Savasleyka airfield in the area where fuel and lubricants are stored. Experts suggest that the fire may have damaged tanks of T-6 kerosene, a specialized fuel used for MiG-31K fighters. This fuel ensures stability at high temperatures during high-altitude flights and is crucial for carrying out combat missions.
Additionally, the monitoring group “Crimean Wind” published satellite images showing fire outbreaks near the airfield’s runway. It is also reported that a fighter jet resembling the MiG-31K might have been at the site of the attack.
Awaiting Official Data
At this time, official information about the extent of the damage and the impact of the strike is still awaited. However, it is clear that the attack is an important part of the Ukrainian strategy to reduce Russia’s aviation capabilities, directly affecting the course of the war.
Read also: Russian Oil Exports Suffer Major Drop Due to Drone Attacks – Bloomberg Report.