On August 2, 2025, Ukrainian forces carried out a high-precision strike against russian military assets in temporarily occupied Zaporizhzhia region. As a result of the long-range fire mission, the S-300 surface-to-air missile system belonging to russian forces was destroyed.
The elimination of the S-300 system marks a significant tactical victory. It reduces russia's ability to carry out long-range missile attacks on Ukrainian defensive positions and civilian infrastructure in the region, a capability that has repeatedly been used to terrorize local populations and obstruct counteroffensive efforts.
Read more: Massive Fire at russian Oil Depot After Nighttime Drone Strike, Sochi Airport Closed
This latest strike once again highlights the growing precision, effectiveness, and intelligence capabilities of Ukrainian forces. Despite the challenges of operating against a well-entrenched enemy on occupied territory, Ukraine continues to successfully identify and neutralize high-value military targets.
The strike is part of a broader and sustained effort by Ukrainian forces to systematically degrade key elements of russia's military power. Each successful mission of this kind chips away at the Kremlin's ability to maintain combat operations and defend its illegally occupied positions in the south of Ukraine.
The S-300 system, a Soviet-era air defense platform still widely used by russian forces, is capable of targeting both aircraft and cruise missiles at medium to long range. Its destruction not only weakens enemy air defenses but also exposes russian troops to greater risk from Ukraine's own long-range assets.
As Defense Express previously reported, in a bold and meticulously executed operation, the Security Service of Ukraine struck a major blow against russian air power in the Black Sea region. During the night, drones operated by the Alpha special group targeted the Saky military airfield in temporarily occupied Crimea, a strategically vital base for russian aviation operations over the Black Sea.
The strike led to the complete destruction of one Su-30SM multirole fighter jet and damage to another. In addition, three Su-24 aircraft were also hit, dealing a significant operational setback to the russian Aerospace Forces. The Su-30SM, a twin-engine jet known for its versatility, costs between $35 and $50 million, emphasizing the scale of the material loss.
Read more: Ukrainian Nighttime Attack Hit russian Su-30SM and Su-24 Jets at the Saky Airfield, Along With an Ammo Depot
