Ukraine has reportedly struck another Russian Tu-95MS strategic bomber at Engels-2 airbase, approximately 800 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. The attack, said to have taken place on August 28, was attributed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the SBU Alpha unit. Satellite imagery reportedly shows severe damage to the aircraft’s right wing, marking another blow to Russia’s long-range aviation fleet.
The Tu-95MS is a key component of Russia’s strategic air force, serving as a platform for launching long-range cruise missiles against targets in Ukraine. Russia reportedly began the war with approximately 47–60 Tu-95MS aircraft, although the number of operational, combat-ready bombers is believed to be considerably smaller. With two Tu-95MS aircraft now reportedly heavily damaged at Engels-2, repeated Ukrainian strikes could further strain Russia’s ability to sustain long-range missile operations.
The attack also highlights Ukraine’s expanding deep-strike capabilities. Reports indicate that Ukraine may have used the MICH 2000 drone, which is described as having an estimated 2,000-kilometer range and a 60-kilogram warhead. The Engels strike follows other reported Ukrainian operations, including a July 16 Su-24M strike at Saky and a July 15 Mi-28 interception in Belgorod.
Together, these developments illustrate Ukraine’s growing ability to threaten strategically important Russian military assets far behind the front lines, potentially forcing Moscow to reconsider airbase security, aircraft dispersal, and long-range aviation protection.
