Ukraine Destroys Over 40 Russian Bombers – On June 1, 2025, Ukraine launched a highly sophisticated and unprecedented drone strike operation against Russian military assets deep inside Russian territory, known as Operation Spider’s Web. This large-scale attack targeted five key Russian airbases — Olenya, Belaya, Ivanovo, Dyagilevo, and Voskresensk — which are critical hubs for Russia’s long-range aviation forces. Over 40 strategic bombers, including advanced Tu-22M3 and Tu-95 models as well as A-50 early warning aircraft, were reportedly destroyed or severely damaged, representing an estimated 34% loss of Russia’s cruise missile carriers stationed at these locations.
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The operation was the result of meticulous planning and covert execution by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) over an 18-month period. To overcome the challenges of penetrating deep into Russian airspace undetected, Ukrainian forces smuggled first-person-view (FPV) drones concealed inside wooden cabins mounted on civilian trucks. These mobile launch platforms were strategically positioned near the targeted airfields. When the time came, the drones were remotely launched from within Russian borders, enabling a surprise strike on heavily guarded military aircraft that were otherwise shielded by defenses.
This strike inflicted a major blow to Russia’s long-range strike capabilities and demonstrated a significant advancement in Ukraine’s use of low-cost, precision drone technology against high-value military targets. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy personally oversaw the operation, which has been hailed by Ukrainian officials and military analysts as a historic success and a turning point in the ongoing conflict.
In response, Russia retaliated with a massive counterstrike, launching an estimated 472 drones and missiles across multiple Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Lviv. This counterattack caused substantial damage, resulting in at least 12 deaths and over 60 injuries. The escalation has added complexity to the war, raising concerns about the increasing use of drone warfare and the vulnerability of military infrastructure on both sides.
The global military community is closely monitoring the implications of this operation. It highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare, where asymmetrical tactics such as drone swarms can neutralize more expensive and technologically advanced assets. The attack has raised alarm about the security of airbases worldwide and may prompt NATO and other military alliances to reassess their base defense strategies in light of the new threat landscape.
Overall, Operation Spider’s Web marks a significant milestone in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, showcasing Ukraine’s growing military innovation and resilience amid a protracted and intense war. It underscores the strategic importance of drone technology and foreshadows a shift toward more dynamic, remote-controlled warfare methods in future conflicts.
