On September 11, Ukrainian forces from the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) shot down a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet over the Black Sea using a man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS). The aircraft, which fell into the sea, was part of the 43rd Separate Naval Aviation Regiment of the Russian Aerospace Forces, stationed at the occupied Sakhi airfield in Crimea.
The connection with the aircraft was lost around 5:00 AM, and after three hours, the search began using an An-26 aircraft and Mi-8 and Ka-27 helicopters. The wreckage was found 70 kilometers northwest of Cape Tarkhankut. Initially, a fuel slick was discovered, and soon after, the crashed Su-30SM was located, with an estimated value of around $50 million.
This incident is part of a broader context of increased Ukrainian activity in the Black Sea and ongoing resistance against Russian invaders on multiple fronts. In the wake of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, control over the Black Sea has become one of Russia’s key strategic objectives. However, such strikes highlight Ukraine’s capability to inflict significant losses on the Russian military even in maritime operations.
Furthermore, on September 11, footage of a GUR raid on the “Crimea-2” oil platform in the Black Sea was released. The operation involved 14 “Sea Force” landing boats, which not only destroyed the Su-30SM but also attacked the Russian drilling platform. This operation underscores the skill of Ukrainian special forces and their ability to operate deep within enemy territory.
This event once again demonstrates the effectiveness of Ukrainian forces in countering Russian aggression and their ability to deliver substantial blows to the enemy even in regions where Russia considered itself invincible.
For more detailed information on Ukrainian attacks on Russian military targets, read the article: Explosions in Voronezh Region: Ukrainian Drones Strike Russian Military Targets Again.