The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) head Vasyl Malyuk revealed on 14/8 how they prepared for "Operation Spiderweb" in early June. "We drew on our experience fighting transnational crime and studied how international drug cartels smuggle illicit substances worldwide undetected by customs and border guards," he explained.
On 1/6, the SBU launched Operation Spiderweb, deploying hundreds of drones to attack strategic Russian air bases. The drones were hidden in truck containers and transported close to the bases before being launched.
Ukrainian drones attack Russian aircraft on 1/6. Video: SBU
Malyuk also referenced the October 2022 Crimea bridge bombing using an explosives-laden truck. "If you look closely, there are some similarities between Operation Spiderweb and the first attack on the Crimea bridge," the SBU chief noted.
Using agents in Russia, the SBU established a transport company, purchased five trucks, and rented warehouse space. This front company hired Russian drivers and sent them on multiple deliveries to avoid suspicion before the attack.
On 1/6, the drivers were instructed to deliver the drone-filled containers near the Russian air bases. They were unaware of the plan, only told a client would meet them for payment. One driver spotted the drones but was told they were "animal observation systems" by a Ukrainian agent.
The SBU planned the attack for May but postponed it for various reasons, including a driver's intoxication during the Easter holiday.
Each container had solar panels and batteries to keep the drones charged. The temperature inside was maintained at 40 degrees Celsius to ensure they could operate in cold weather.
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Ukrainian FPV drones stored in wooden crates before the 1/6 attack. Photo: SBU |
Ukrainian FPV drones stored in wooden crates before the 1/6 attack. Photo: SBU
Malyuk stated Ukraine designed the drones specifically for Operation Spiderweb, each with a 1.6 kg payload. "Getting the drones into Russia was also difficult due to sanctions," he said, declining further details on the transport but emphasizing Ukrainian agents "went through hell to do this."
On 2/6, the SBU claimed Operation Spiderweb hit 41 aircraft at five Russian bases, including A-50 early warning aircraft, Tu-95MS, Tu-22M3, and Tu-160 strategic bombers, completely destroying 13 and damaging others.
US officials estimate around 20 aircraft were hit, half the Ukrainian claim, with 10 destroyed. Russia hasn't disclosed specific losses but said it would repair damaged aircraft.
Nguyen Tien (Business Insider, AFP, AP)
