Ukrainian drones recently targeted an airfield in Akhtubinsk, Russia, damaging two Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets. The attack, occurring 350 miles from Ukraine, has reportedly infuriated Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate revealed that one Su-57 might be irreparable, while the other requires significant repairs. The raid illustrates the vulnerability of high-value military assets to low-cost drone technology. Scene analysts like Justin Bronk consider the incident a significant setback for Russia's advanced stealth fighter fleet.
In related developments, Ukraine has effectively employed uncrewed systems against Russian naval forces in the Black Sea. Since losing its naval headquarters, Sevastopol, in 2014, Ukraine has adapted by using drones and missiles to challenge Russian dominance. Successful drone strikes have damaged several Russian vessels and infrastructure, altering the maritime warfare landscape and attracting global attention for their tactics.