"Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) destroyed a Tu-95 strategic bomber at Engels base, a Russian aircraft used for missile attacks against our country. The base is about 800 km from Ukraine's border," President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on X on 17/7.
A video posted by President Zelensky, sourced from social media, shows a city at night from above, capturing an explosion and a rising column of fire in the distance.
Video posted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announcing the destruction of a Russian Tu-95 bomber. *Video: X/ZelenskyyUa*
President Zelensky stated that Ukrainian forces "are legitimately and actively defending themselves." He added that Ukraine also attacked Russian oil industry facilities and other targets in Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine.
On 17/7, the SBU confirmed deploying long-range drones to attack the target. This operation aimed to degrade Russia's military and economic capabilities, aligning with tasks outlined by President Zelensky.
"The Tu-95 sustained severe damage, with its tail section completely torn off," the SBU reported. "Each strategic bomber removed from service means dozens of missiles will no longer be launched at Ukrainian cities."
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A Tu-95 bomber at Russia's Engels airbase in December 2022. *Photo: AFP*
According to the Kiev Post, the attack on Engels airbase in Saratov province occurred in the early morning of 16/7. Residents of Engels and nearby Saratov reported multiple low-flying drones, followed by a series of explosions.
Russia's Astra news agency analyzed social media images and videos, confirming a fire at Engels military airfield. However, the agency has not specified the damage to aircraft, ammunition depots, or other military infrastructure.
Russia's Ministry of Defense has not commented on these reports.
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Location of Engels airbase, Saratov province, Russia. *Graphic: Irish Times*
Engels airbase serves as the sole base for the Tu-160 strategic bomber squadron, in addition to housing dozens of Tu-22M3 and Tu-95MS aircraft.
From this base, the Russian air force launches long-range cruise missile attacks on Ukrainian territory. The strategic bombers stationed at Engels are also capable of carrying nuclear weapons, forming one of Russia's three pillars of nuclear deterrence.
Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)
