Ukraine: In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing war, Ukraine has struck deep into Russian territory, targeting key airbases and destroying more than 40 nuclear-capable Tupolev Tu-95MS strategic bombers. This marks the first time Ukraine has launched an attack of such scale and impact within Russia, signaling a major turning point in the over three-year-old conflict.
The drone strike, carried out by the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU), came shortly after Russia launched a renewed assault on Ukraine on Sunday, June 1. Kiev responded swiftly and decisively, sending drones into Russian airspace and hitting critical military infrastructure. The attack occurred just as both nations were moving closer to a potential ceasefire agreement, with peace talks reportedly on the horizon.
The Tu-95MS, also known by its NATO codename “Bear-H,” is one of the most iconic and feared aircraft in Russia’s strategic arsenal. These Soviet-era bombers, which entered service in 1952, are the only propeller-driven strategic bombers still in active duty. Despite their age, they play a crucial role in Russia’s long-range nuclear deterrent capabilities.
Ukraine’s targeting of these bombers is being hailed as a strategic masterstroke. Destroying such a large number of Tu-95s significantly weakens Russia’s ability to conduct long-range strikes and sends a clear message about Ukraine’s growing capabilities.
The Tu-95MS bombers are infamous for their deafening noise. Their massive contra-rotating propellers spin at near-supersonic speeds, producing a roar so loud that U.S. Navy submarines can reportedly detect them underwater. Some reports even suggest the noise can cause hearing damage to flight crews.
Originally designed to deliver nuclear payloads during the Cold War, these bombers were later used by the Russian military in support of Bashar al-Assad during the Syrian civil war. They gained further notoriety in 1961, when a Tu-95 dropped the Tsar Bomba—still the most powerful nuclear bomb ever detonated—on an island in the Barents Sea.
Despite being over 70 years old, the Tu-95MS fleet remains a cornerstone of Russia’s strategic forces. Moscow has been actively upgrading the bombers with new wing pylons, stealth-capable Kh-101 and Kh-102 cruise missiles, and modified internal bays for carrying heavier payloads. The modernized aircraft measures 49.13 meters in length and weighs up to 187,000 kg when fully fueled.
The successful drone strike on Russian airbases is a significant tactical achievement for Ukraine and a major blow to Russia’s air power. Video footage released by Ukraine shows FPV (first-person view) drones striking the grounded bombers with precision. Russian officials have confirmed the damage, acknowledging that at least 40 Tu-95MS aircraft were impacted.
This daring operation showcases Ukraine’s evolving military capabilities and serves as a bold demonstration of its ability to strike deep inside Russian territory. While the attack may not bring an immediate end to the war, it has undoubtedly shifted the strategic landscape as peace negotiations loom.
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