- Ukraine launched a drone attack on Russia’s Engels-2 airbase, targeting strategic bombers.
- The strike caused explosions, fires, and ammunition detonations, leading to evacuations.
- Russia claims to have intercepted 132 drones, but significant damage was reported.
Ukraine successfully executed a drone strike on Russia’s Engels-2 airbase in Saratov Oblast, a critical hub for nuclear-capable bombers.
Despite Russia’s claims that air defenses intercepted 132 Ukrainian drones across multiple regions, the scale of destruction at Engels-2 suggests the attack inflicted significant damage.
Ukraine Strikes Russian Airbase: A Major Blow to Strategic Operations
Ukraine’s drone assault on Engels-2 airbase represents a critical shift in the war, targeting one of Russia’s most important military assets. The base houses Tu-95, Tu-22, and Tu-160 bombers, regularly used in missile strikes against Ukraine. The attack resulted in explosions and fires, reportedly damaging weapons storage facilities and aircraft. Russian authorities responded by evacuating nearby residents, declaring a state of emergency in the area.
This strike underscores Ukraine’s ability to carry out long-range operations deep inside Russian territory. It follows a series of previous attempts to hit Engels-2, including attacks in December 2022 and January 2025. While Russia claims its air defenses intercepted dozens of drones, evidence suggests Ukraine achieved its objective of disrupting military operations.
Beyond military implications, the attack has intensified the ongoing war dynamics, raising questions about the effectiveness of Russian air defenses. The Kremlin faces increasing pressure to bolster security at key strategic locations, particularly as Ukraine refines its drone capabilities. Meanwhile, Western allies continue to support Kyiv with intelligence and defense systems, aiding such precision strikes.
As both sides escalate their tactics, Ukraine’s ability to breach Russian airspace and directly threaten its military infrastructure signals a turning point. The conflict is no longer confined to the frontlines but has expanded into strategic depth, reshaping the battlefield dynamics.
Ukraine’s strike on Engels-2 airbase highlights a new phase in the conflict, where drone warfare plays a decisive role. As both nations adapt their strategies, long-range strikes could become a defining factor in the ongoing war.
“The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.” – Sun Tzu
