Ukrainian forces have reportedly carried out a long-range strike targeting russian combat aircraft deep inside the country's territory, marking another expansion of Ukraine's operational reach. The attack was aimed at reducing russia's ability to conduct strikes against civilian targets in Ukraine.
The strike took place on April 25, 2026, at the Shagol air base in russia's Chelyabinsk region. The facility lies approximately 1,700 kilometers from Ukraine's state border.
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Units of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces were responsible for the operation. While details on the exact means of attack remain limited, the distance involved strongly suggests the use of long-range drones or a coordinated strike package designed to penetrate deep into russian airspace.
According to preliminary information, several Su-57 fighter jets and at least one Su-34 fighter-bomber were hit in the strike. The Su-57 is russia's most advanced fifth-generation combat aircraft, while Su-34 aircraft plays a key role in conducting airstrikes against ground targets, including infrastructure in Ukraine.
The extent of the damage has not yet been fully confirmed, but even limited damage to such high-value aircraft could have operational and symbolic consequences. Russia's fleet of Su-57 jets remains relatively small, meaning any losses or required repairs could affect its ability to deploy these aircraft effectively.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukrainian forces have carried out a complex and highly coordinated operation targeting fighters of the Akhmat unit on the Sumy axis, according to Ukraine's Defense Intelligence. The campaign, conducted over several months, combined human intelligence, technical surveillance, and precision strikes to significantly degrade the unit's combat capabilities.
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