On one of the key axes of the Khortytsia Operational-Strategic Group, Ukrainian forces have successfully destroyed russian Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile system, marking a significant blow to the enemy's high-value air defense network
The operation was carried out by the Chornyi Lis Artillery Reconnaissance Brigade, whose intelligence team once again demonstrated their expertise in hunting down russia's prized air defense assets. The Buk-M3 system, fully loaded with missiles and ready for launch, was detected at its firing position. Ukrainian forces, with guidance from the Brigade's spotters, adjusted their fire and successfully struck the target.
Read more: Drone Strike Cripples russian Layered Air Defenses in Donetsk region, destroying Tor, Buk-M3, and S-300 Systems (Video)
Ukrainian kamikaze drone attacks Russian Buk-M3 air defense system. Video of the 15th Separate Artillery Reconnaissance Brigade "Black Forest" pic.twitter.com/3grQDuVGKx — MilitaryNewsUA (@front_ukrainian) May 24, 2025
The Buk-M3 is russia's most advanced mobile SAM system, boasting a range of up to 70 km and the ability to engage aerial, ground, and naval targets. Its destruction not only removes a potent threat to Ukrainian aircraft but also represents a major financial and tactical loss for russian forces, each system is valued at approximately $45 million.
This strike once again highlights the growing precision, coordination, and battlefield awareness of Ukrainian reconnaissance and artillery units. With each such hit, Ukraine is systematically dismantling russia's layered air defense umbrella.
As Defense Express previously reported, on May 20, 2025, the Unmanned Systems Forces delivered a decisive blow to russian echeloned air defense network on the Donetsk axis. Operators from Charlie Company of the 14th Separate UAV Regiment, working closely with artillery scouts from the 15th Artillery Reconnaissance Brigade, successfully located and eliminated three surface-to-air missile batteries and a command-and-staff vehicle.
The first target was unmodified Tor system, capable of intercepting aircraft within 15 km. Later, more sophisticated Buk-M3 battery, with a 70 km engagement range, was destroyed. Finally, the S-300 system, tasked with neutralizing high-altitude aircraft and ballistic missiles up to 200 km away, was taken out. A secondary strike demolished the enemy's mobile command post for the air defense division, sowing confusion and creating gaps in russia's aerial shield.
Read more: Ukrainian Phoenix Unit Wipes Out russian TOS-1A System and Molniya Drone Launcher in Kharkiv Region (Video)
