On the night of December 20, a significant fire erupted at a Russian military airbase near Lipetsk, resulting in damage to two fighter jets — the Su-30 and Su-27.
This was reported by the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, which released video footage and details of the operation conducted.
According to the GUR, the special operation was carried out with the involvement of a representative of the resistance movement against the Russian regime. As a result of the actions, both expensive combat aircraft of the aggressor state were rendered inoperable directly on the military site's territory.
The estimated total cost of the destroyed fighters, which Russia used in its war against Ukraine, may reach up to 100 million dollars. This concerns the aircraft Su-27 and Su-30 with tail numbers «12» and «82».
The intelligence agency notes that the success of the operation was made possible due to meticulous preparation, composure, and professionalism of the executors. Planning actions at the airbase near Lipetsk lasted about two weeks.
In particular, patrol routes and guard shift schedules were studied, allowing for a stealthy infiltration of the airbase, striking the Russian fighters directly in the protective aviation hangar, and leaving the site without detection.
The GUR emphasizes that such operations are aimed at reducing the combat capabilities of the Russian army and are part of a systematic response to Russian aggression.