Ukraine downs Russian Tu‑22M3 bomber in strategic drone strike
"It had just landed when our drone hit it. The cost is about 100 million dollars," reported Oleksandr Syrskyi, the chief commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This statement refers to the successful strike on the valuable Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft, which was targeted by a Ukrainian drone.
In recent days, Ukrainians have celebrated the destruction of three Buk air defence systems within a span of just 12 hours. Now, the addition of the long-range bomber, the Tu-22M3, to the list of successful targets by the Ukrainian army, marks another significant achievement. "A few days ago, our successful actions destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range bomber," said Oleksandr Syrskyi. The chief commander of the Ukrainian forces estimated the cost of this aircraft to be approximately 100 million dollars.
The Russians lost a Tu-22M3 as Ukrainians carry out an attack
To clarify, the mentioned long-range bomber Tu-22M3, along with other aircraft of this type (including the Tu-95MS), has recently been relocated by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation as far from Ukraine as possible. This move is likely an attempt by the Russians to protect themselves from Ukrainian long-range drone attacks. These drones have demonstrated their capability to cover hundreds of miles to effectively strike targets deep within enemy territory.
For the Russians, bombers of this type are highly valuable. They enable the military to target virtually the entire territory of Ukraine while launching from airbases located far from the frontline, thanks to the aircraft's extensive range.
Tu-22M3 bombers are technologically advanced machines. Their design allows them to undertake missions over several thousand miles, making them exceptionally effective in long-range operations. Although specific details about their armament are not widely disclosed, it is known that these machines are frequently used in missions requiring substantial firepower. Their capability to carry advanced missiles makes them a crucial component in major military operations where significant striking power is essential. The armament of these bombers is housed within one bomb bay and four weapon pylons. Additionally, a GSz-23 aircraft cannon is mounted in the tail of the plane.
