Ukrainian forces score $100M hit on Russian bomber with drone
"It had just landed and our drone hit it. The cost is about 100 million dollars," reported Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He was speaking about the successful strike on the valuable Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft, which fell victim to a Ukrainian drone.
In recent days, Ukrainians have boasted of the success of destroying three Buk air defense systems within 12 hours. Now, the Ukrainian army adds the destruction of the long-range Tu-22M3 bomber to its list of achievements. "A few days ago, our successful actions destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range bomber," said Oleksandr Syrskyi. The Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian forces estimated the cost of this aircraft to be around 100 million dollars.
The Russians lost a Tu-22M3. Ukrainians conducted an attack
Let us explain that the mentioned long-range bombers, Tu-22M3, along with other aircraft of this type (including the Tu-95MS), have recently been relocated as far away from Ukraine as possible by the Russian Federation's army in recent weeks. This move seems to be an attempt by the Russians to defend against attacks carried out by Ukrainian long-range drones. History has shown that these drones are capable of covering several hundred miles to reach and successfully strike targets deep within enemy territory.
For the Russians, such bombers are very valuable as they enable bombing operations across essentially the entire territory of Ukraine after launching from airbases located far from the frontline, thanks to the aircraft's long range.
Tu-22M3 bombers are technologically advanced machines. Their design allows them to carry out missions over several thousand miles, making them extremely effective in long-range operations. Although details regarding their armament are not widely available, it is known that these aircraft are often used in operations requiring significant firepower. Their ability to carry advanced missiles makes them a key component in large military operations where substantial striking power is necessary. The armament of these bombers is stored in a single bomb bay and mounted on four weapon stations. Additionally, there is a GSz-23 aircraft gun located in the tail of the aircraft.
