Drones Target Russian Strategic Bomber Base amid Ukraine Conflict
The Engels-2 airbase in Saratov oblast, home to Russian strategic bombers, was struck by drone attacks early in the morning. Residents reported hearing four explosions on social media.
4:12 AM EDT, March 20, 2024
- "Unmanned aerial vehicles over Engels were neutralized. The air defense systems were fully effective. There were no casualties or infrastructure damage due to falling debris," noted Saratov oblast governor Valery Radaev.
"Five Ukrainian drones were intercepted by air defenses while on high alert over the territories of Belgorod oblast (1 drone) and Saratov oblast (4 drones)," the Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed in a statement.
Repeated attacks on the Engels base
The Engels-2 base hosts the 121st Guards Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiment equipped with Tu-160M and the 184th Guards Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiment operating Tupolev Tu-95 MS, both part of the 22nd Guards Heavy Bomber Aviation Division. Aircraft from these regiments participated in the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This strategic bombing facility has been attacked several times before by Ukrainian combat drones. In December 2022, Ukrainian forces succeeded in damaging at least two strategic Tu-95MS bombers on the airfield.
