Ukrainian operation 'Spiderweb' destroys Russian air bases
The Ukrainian operation "Spiderweb" has destroyed Russian air bases, limiting their capacity for attacks on Ukraine, explains expert Valerij Romanenko as quoted by the Ukrainian agency Unian. He points out that Russia now has only one base for relocating bombers, located approximately 6,000 kilometres from the Ukrainian border.
The Ukrainian operation "Spiderweb" effectively struck Russian air bases, significantly diminishing Russia's ability to carry out attacks on Ukraine. According to Unian, at least eight strategic bombers were destroyed or damaged during the operation conducted on June 1, 2025.
Russia loses key bases
Following the drone attacks, Russia is left with only one available airbase to relocate its bombers: the "Ukrainka" base in the Amur region. Expert Valerij Romanenko emphasizes that moving to this base will hinder Russia's ability to conduct regular attacks on Ukraine, primarily due to the considerable distance, around 6,000 kilometres, between the base and Russia's border with Ukraine.
Limited strategic capabilities
Romanenko explains that the "Ukrainka" base is one of the largest airports in Russia and is home to the 182nd Strategic Bombers Regiment, which includes Tu-95MS aircraft. Transferring the bombers there means that their range will not permit a return trip after an attack on Ukraine.
Reduced threat to Ukraine
The expert adds that Russia currently has few operational bombers, limiting its ability to conduct strategic attacks. The frequency of air raids observed in previous years will no longer be feasible.
Russia's limited capabilities may necessitate a shift in military strategy. Moving bombers to "Ukrainka" could mean Russia will need to abandon regular attacks on Ukraine.
To clarify, the Tu-95MS aircraft stationed in the Amur region are among the oldest, yet still effective, components of the Russian air arsenal. Despite being in service for over seven decades, they remain a potent platform for carrying various types of ordnance. These machines can transport up to 20,000 kilograms of armament, including cruise missiles like the Kh-101, which have a range of up to 4,500 kilometres, as well as conventional and nuclear bombs.
One of the bombers' key features is their impressive range of about 10,500 kilometres (without aerial refueling). Thanks to four NK-12 turboprop engines, these powerful Russian aircraft can reach maximum speeds exceeding 800 kilometres per hour.
