Ukrainian Air Force confirms shooting down six Russian aircraft, potentially costing Moscow over $100M
The Ukrainian Armed Forces have reported the downing of six Russian fighters and bombers in the last three days.
11:30 AM EST, February 19, 2024
"Our air forces destroyed two Russian planes this morning. These were firing missiles at the positions of our troops. One Su-34 bomber and one Su-35 fighter were shot down," the statement confirmed on Monday.
Anton Gerashchenko, an advisor to the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs, has confirmed the existence of a video purportedly showing one of the pilots face down in the sea. The commander of the Ukrainian Air Force validated this. It is reported that Russian helicopters are on a search operation for the plane's crew over the sea.
This incident signifies a loss of technologically advanced machinery for Moscow worth more than 100 million dollars. Crucially, this marks another loss of valuable equipment for the Russian military.
Russian sources initially refrained from confirming the losses. However, earlier Russian military observers reported the deployment of Ukrainian air defense systems near Avdiivka, in the area where the Russians were allegedly downed.
Russian Strike Aircraft Su-34
The Su-34 plane is a combat machine developed based on the Su-27 fighter. A distinguishing feature of the Su-34 is the expanded crew cabin located in the fuselage - both pilots sit side by side - and a noticeable "hump" when viewed from the side.
The aircraft is roughly 75 feet long, with a wingspan of 49 feet. In take-off configuration, it weighs up to 84,000 pounds. The machine is capable of carrying up to 17,640 pounds of armament, which can be attached to 12 under-wing and under-hull nodes.
The Russian military air force had approximately 130-140 Su-34 units prior to the attack on Ukraine.
