Ukrainian forces inflict heavy toll on Russians, down Su‑34
The fighting in Ukraine continues, and Ukrainian soldiers are determined not to surrender easily. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported significant losses on the Russian side. In just one day, Russians were said to have lost over a thousand soldiers and an aircraft.
9:38 AM EDT, August 15, 2024
The Russian aggression against Ukraine has been ongoing for over 900 days, yet Ukrainian forces persist in their fight and achieve further successes. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported new progress on the front. Despite the passage of time, Ukrainians consistently defend their homeland and achieve significant victories.
Painful Russian losses
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that the Russian Federation lost 1,220 soldiers in one day, including both killed and wounded.
Ukrainian forces also reportedly destroyed another aircraft. Although the source does not specify the exact model, it is most likely the downing of a multi-role tactical bomber Su-34, as reported by Norbert Garbarek, a journalist for Wirtualna Polska.
Unfortunately, Ukrainians are also incurring losses, including in the air. Recently, Łukasz Michalik mentioned that they lost a MiG-29 fighter jet along with an experienced pilot on board.
Comparison of Su-34 and MiG-29
The Su-34 and MiG-29 are different types of aircraft, so their capabilities can't be directly compared. Below are the main features of these machines and how they stand against contemporary military challenges.
The Su-34 aircraft, also known as "Fullback," was developed by the Sukhoi company as a successor to the Su-24. Its design began in the 1980s, and the first units entered service in the 1990s. Conversely, the MiG-29 is a fourth-generation fighter created by Mikoyan and Gurevich, which debuted in the 1970s.
The Su-34, with its long range and ability to carry a wide range of armaments, excels in bombing missions. It is equipped with two powerful AL-31F engines and can reach supersonic speeds. The MiG-29, on the other hand, is a more maneuverable fighter, excellent in aerial combat. Equipped with RD-33 engines, it is capable of quick and agile actions.