A recent report from Ukrainian intelligence suggests that Vladimir Putin is not happy about the drone attack on an airfield that potentially damaged two cutting-edge Su-57 jet fighters from Russia.
The spokesperson for Ukraine‘s Main Intelligence Directorate, Andriy Yushov, shared this insight on national television. This revelation follows the agency’s statement on June 9 regarding the possible damage to two Russian Su-57 fighter jets at the Akhtubinsk airfield in Astrakhan, about 365 miles away from the current conflict in eastern Ukraine.
As per Ukrainian media reports, Yushov expressed on June 10 that Putin’s anger was evident and intense because the Su-57s were well-protected but still targeted. He mentioned that these stealth aircraft were never deployed in Ukrainian airspace to avoid being shot down, which ultimately failed.
Yushov described the operation as a significant blow to Russia, noting that the country produces these stealth aircraft in limited quantities and utilizes them for missile attacks on Ukrainian targets. He emphasized that this action was the punishment Russia deserved.
In a subsequent update, Yushov confirmed that one Su-57 sustained significant damage while the other could potentially be repaired despite lighter damage.
Analyst Justin Bronk highlighted in a June 10 article that Ukraine’s successful hit on a Su-57 deals a notable blow to Russia’s troubled stealth fighter program, which has faced persistent issues. This incident underscores Ukraine’s effective defense against Russian air assaults on the frontlines.
Bronk elaborated that even the temporary loss of one Su-57 could result in at least a 5% reduction in Russia’s frontline fighter fleet. Additionally, it represents a symbolic setback for a program that Russia takes great pride in but has struggled to stabilize.
General Christopher Cavoli informed American lawmakers in April that Russia has lost over 10% of its aircraft fleet since the launch of Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 20, 2022.