Ukraine's Bold Drone Ambitions: Aiming Beyond 1242 Miles to Target Russia
Journalists from the German newspaper BILD, citing their sources, report that later this year, Ukraine plans to deploy drones capable of reaching over 1242 miles. One potential target is the Olenya air base on the Kola Peninsula, a storage site for Russian strategic bombers.
The publication mentioned that the Ukrainian armed forces have recently managed to strike targets in Tatarstan with drones, marking a first. Among the targets was a facility involved in preparing drones for the Russian military, situated roughly 807 miles from the front lines.
Ukraine to develop weaponry with a range exceeding 1242 miles
One of the attacks utilized the UJ-22 Airborne, which initially had a range of about 497 miles. The Ukrainians developed a new version with additional fuel tanks to reach further. They also employed a modified, unmanned variant of the Aeroprakt A-22, indicating further ambitious plans.
According to BILD's sources, around ten manufacturers could supply the Ukrainian military with drones capable of spanning distances over 1242 miles by year's end. Details, particularly specifications of these upcoming drones, remain undisclosed, but the list is believed to include models like the Sokol-300.
Potential targets of Ukrainian drones in Russia
Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries have significantly impacted Russia, as highlighted by recent actions. Prior attacks have successfully targeted Russian airports, damaging aircraft and helicopters. BILD's report identifies future targets, including locations in Russia's far north.
A key site of interest is the Olenya air base on the Kola Peninsula, housing Russian strategic bombers Tu-95 and Tu-160.
The Tu-95 bombers can reach altitudes up to 8.38 miles and remain airborne for up to 14 hours without refueling. Their range extends to 6524 miles, which can increase to 9019 miles with refueling. Capable of speeds up to 515 mph, they can carry Kh-101 missiles with a range of 3417 miles.
The Tu-160, known as the "White Swan," boasts speeds up to 1367 mph and a one-time flight range of 7456-8077 miles. It can transport up to 29 tons of armaments, showing the Russian capability in aerial warfare.
