Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) conducted a stunning long-range drone operation that destroyed dozens of Russia’s strategic bombers, marking one of the most devastating strikes against Moscow’s airpower since the invasion began.

The coordinated attack—called “Operation Web” (Pavutina)—hit multiple high-value targets at airbases including Belaya, Diaghilevo, Olenya, Ivanovo, and Olenegorsk in Murmansk. Ukrainian sources say 41 aircraft were hit, including Tu-95, Tu-22M3, A-50, and possibly Tu-160 bombers. These platforms represent the core of Russia’s long-range missile attack and nuclear strike capabilities.

Inside the SBU’s Drone Strike Blueprint

The SBU reportedly smuggled FPV drones inside Russian territory over several months, hiding them in mobile wooden shelters disguised as houses mounted on trucks. At the right time, the structures’ roofs opened, and drones launched in sequence—avoiding jamming and delivering high-precision strikes.

Zelensky confirmed the operation was 18 months in the making, stating it was Ukraine’s longest-range and most complex special operation to date. “An absolutely brilliant result,” he said, crediting SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk.

Russian Denials and Repercussions

Russia’s Ministry of Defense admitted fires broke out at multiple airfields but called the drone attack “terrorism.” It claimed some aircraft caught fire but did not acknowledge the scale of destruction. Ukrainian journalist Alexander Kovalenko alleged that two Tu-160 Blackjacks were also damaged—aircraft Russia has no current ability to replace.

The Northern Fleet HQ in Murmansk, which houses Yasen-M nuclear submarines, was also reportedly targeted—though Russian officials denied this.

Global Implications and U.S. Warning

The strike highlights the vulnerability of high-value assets in the drone age. Military analysts called it a “wake-up call” for global air forces, including the U.S., which still lacks hardened shelters for strategic aircraft. The use of AI-enabled drones or image-matching navigation further escalates the threat.

The U.S. administration, led by Trump, initially claimed it had been warned—only to later retract and admit it was not informed in advance.