Another Russian Su‑34 bomber bites the dust, Ukrainian military intelligence strikes again

In recent months, the Russian Su-34 bombers have been a crucial tool for exerting pressure on the Ukrainian army and gaining air superiority. In December 2023 alone, Russia had to grapple with the loss of multiple aircraft of this type.

Last month, the Ukrainian forces successfully targeted the airfield in Mrozovsky where these Su-34s were stationed, inflicting significant damage. Additional destruction of these bombers was recorded during the holiday season.

Following the loss of these valuable assets, Russian forces paused attacks using Su-34s for several days. They then began implementing a well-known deception tactic at the Primorsky-Akhtarsky airfield, painting images of decoy aircraft on the field. These were meant to trick their adversaries and direct incoming fire to empty areas of the airfield.

However, despite all their efforts, the Russians have added another Su-34 to their growing list of losses. The latest aircraft was destroyed at the Chelyabinsk airfield. This was the result of an operation executed by Ukrainian military intelligence.

These aircraft constitute a significant part of the Russian military, as they represent relatively recent designs. The most recent models of this multi-role fighter-bomber have been in production since 2011, designed specifically for reconnaissance and assault missions.

This versatile machine is equipped with twin AL-31F M1 turbojet engines that generate over 132 kN of thrust each (with afterburner). This propulsion power enables the aircraft to reach speeds of approximately 1.9 thousand km/h (about 1,180 mph). However, the maximum range of the Su-34 is about 4 thousand km (around 2,485 miles). This frontline bomber is capable of carrying a load of up to 8 metric tons (approximately 8.8 short tons) to this distance. The aircraft's bare weight is about 17.5 metric tons (roughly 19.3 short tons), with the takeoff weight slightly exceeding 38 tons (about 41.9 short tons).

The Su-34 carries weapons on 12 hardpoints, accommodating a variety of bombs, rocket missiles, and tactical weaponry. Notably, the aircraft can also carry several types of thermonuclear bombs.