Ukrainian forces conducted a strategic operation using long-range drones to target a key Russian airbase, resulting in the destruction of warehouses storing fuel, ammunition, and highly destructive glide bombs. The attack was directed at the Marynivka airfield in Russia's Volgograd region, a crucial site utilized for launching aircraft that bomb the front lines.
According to a source within the Security Service of Ukraine, the operation was a joint effort between the SBU and Ukraine's Special Operations Forces. The strikes caused explosions at warehouses containing guided aerial bombs, ammunition, and fuel, leading to significant damage throughout the night and morning.
Video footage circulating on social media reportedly shows black plumes of smoke rising from the airfield, although the details of the video have not been independently verified. The attack is seen as one of Ukraine's most successful long-range strikes on Russian military installations to date.
The SBU source emphasized the precision of their operations at enemy airfields, stating that each strike diminishes Russian air superiority and restricts their aviation capabilities.
Due to restrictions preventing Ukraine from using its Western-made missiles to strike inside Russia, the country has heavily relied on locally produced long-range attack drones to target Moscow's military and energy facilities. The campaign has specifically aimed to counter the threat posed by Russian glide bombs, which are highly destructive munitions equipped with precision-guided kits.
Russia's use of glide bombs has been a significant concern, with over 750 of these munitions reportedly deployed in a single week earlier this month, as stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Given the challenges in intercepting glide bombs due to their characteristics, Ukraine has focused on targeting Russian airfields to neutralize the threat.
By striking airfields where fighter-bombers and glide bombs are stationed, Ukraine aims to eliminate the threat posed by these munitions. The recent attack on the Marynivka airfield is part of a series of strikes conducted by Ukraine over the past few months to disrupt Russian military capabilities.
