Ukraine Strikes Deep into Russia with Massive Drone Assault on Airbases

June 01, 2025 – Ukraine/Russia – 

In a major escalation of its military capabilities, Ukraine launched “Operation Spider’s Web” on June 1, 2025, targeting five Russian airbases deep within Russian territory. The bold drone operation, orchestrated by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), destroyed or damaged at least 40 Russian aircraft, including several strategic bombers critical to Moscow’s long-range strike arsenal.

The strike involved 117 long-range drones, covertly assembled and launched from within Russian borders. These drones hit key airbases at Belaya, Dyagilevo, Olenya, Ivanovo Severny, and Ukrainka, spanning five separate Russian regions and time zones. One of the most notable strikes was on Belaya Air Base in Siberia, over 4,000 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, demonstrating a significant expansion in Ukraine’s operational reach.

Among the aircraft damaged or destroyed were Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 bombers, which Russia uses for both conventional and nuclear missions. Some sources indicated that additional support aircraft, including Il-76 transports and fuel tankers, were also hit. The attack reportedly caused confusion and concern within Russian military circles due to its scale and precision.

Yuriy Butusov, a Ukrainian military journalist, described the operation as a “turning point,” calling it the largest and most successful Ukrainian strike on Russian strategic forces since the full-scale invasion began. Satellite images and unofficial reports suggest major damage, though Russian officials have downplayed the losses.

The psychological impact of the strike is also significant. By proving it can hit strategic targets far from the front lines, Ukraine has challenged Russia’s sense of internal security. Analysts believe the operation was timed to coincide with waning international support and stalled peace talks, sending a clear signal that Ukraine can still disrupt Russian military infrastructure.

This operation reflects a shift in warfare tactics, highlighting Ukraine’s innovative use of asymmetric methods and evolving drone technologies. While the long-term effects remain to be seen, the raid has undoubtedly altered the military and diplomatic calculus in the ongoing war.

Reference – 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0r1jv0rn0ko

https://www.wsj.com/world/ukraine-russia-drone-attack-bombers-cc77e534

https://english.nv.ua/nation/butusov-unveils-new-details-about-destruction-of-russian-strategic-aviation-aircraft-50518642.html