Russia is highly likely creating a new “elite” attack aviation group code-named Shtorm to operate over Ukraine. The unit is likely to consist of at least one squadron of Su-24 and Su-34 fighter-bombers, and a squadron of attack helicopters, the UK Defense Intelligence reports.
The mix of aircraft types suggests the group will have a primary role of ground attack missions.
Read more: The UK Defense Intelligence: Train Derailment near Simferopol Disrupts Supply Line to russia's Black Sea Fleet
Russian media reports suggest that the russian Ministry of Defense aims to attract highly skilled and motivated pilots by offering large pay incentives and opening recruitment to retired aviators.
According to the UK Defense Intelligence, the creation of the group highlights how russian assesses its regular air force squadrons have severely underperformed in their core function of conducting airstrikes on Ukrainian lines.
As Defense Express reported, The UK Defense Intelligence: russia Improves its Long-Range Missile Strikes on Ukraine with New Tactics.
Read more: The UK Defense Intelligence: russian Government Imposes Ban on Senior Officials Resigning Amidst the War
