On September 28, 2023, russian air defense forces highly likely shot down one of their own Su-35S FLANKER M multi-role combat jets over Tokmak, approximately 20 km behind the current front line, the UK Defense Intelligence reports.
Although russia has lost around 90 fixed wing aircraft since the start of the invasion, this is probably only the fifth loss of a Su-35S aircraft, russia’s most advanced combat jet in widespread service. The location is relevant because Tokmak is a heavily fortified town which often hosts russian headquarters commanding one of the most intensely contested sectors of the front line.
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These headquarters would typically be protected with dedicated short and medium range air defense systems. These are almost certainly held at very high readiness, as Ukraine continues to conduct effective deep strikes against such locations.
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