Covert Strike on Rear-Area Airbase

Ukraine’s military intelligence agency said two Russian fighter aircraft were disabled during a covert operation at a military airfield near the city of Lipetsk on the night of December 20–21, 2025.

According to the statement, a fire broke out inside a protected aviation hangar, damaging a Su-30 and a Su-27 stationed at the base.

The incident occurred overnight and did not involve reported casualties.

The agency said the aircraft were rendered inoperable as a result of the fire.

It estimated the combined value of the two fighters at up to $100 million, framing the incident as a significant material loss for Russia’s air forces.

Planning, Access, and Execution

Ukrainian officials said the operation was carried out by a representative of an internal resistance movement operating inside Russia, acting in coordination with military intelligence.

Planning for the operation allegedly took two weeks and focused on studying patrol routes and guard rotation schedules at the airfield.

According to the account, this preparation allowed the operative to enter the military facility without detection, set fire to the aircraft while they were inside a hangar, and leave the base without being apprehended.

The aircraft involved were identified by tail numbers “12” and “82,” which Ukrainian intelligence cited as confirmation of the targets.

The Lipetsk region hosts key training and operational aviation facilities, making it a strategically relevant location.

The Ukrainian statement emphasized that the operation targeted military assets used in Russia’s war against Ukraine, presenting it as an example of continued resistance activity inside Russian territory.