On September 21, 2025, the Ukrainian special unit GUR MO 'Phantoms' carried out an impressive operation that led to the destruction of two Russian Be-12 'Chaika' amphibious aircraft in the temporarily occupied Crimea. This marks a historic first, as reported by Ukrainian intelligence.
According to GUR, the Be-12 'Chaika' is equipped with costly technology designed to detect and combat submarines.
Additionally, during the 'Phantoms' operation, another enemy Mi-8 helicopter was also destroyed.
Open source information reveals that the Be-12 'Chaika' measures over 30 meters in length and has a wingspan of 29.84 meters. Its maximum flight speed reaches 530 km/h. The aircraft made its first flight in the autumn of 1960.
Earlier, the 'Phantoms' destroyed three Mi-8 helicopters in Crimea and a Russian radar system.
Ukrainian special forces also eliminated a Russian 9K317M 'Buk-M3' anti-aircraft missile system in the temporarily occupied Zaporizhzhia region, valued at $40-50 million.