Ukrainian border guard pilots from the Phoenix unit conducted a successful operation in Donetsk region, targeting enemy forces on motorcycles and destroying Msta-S russian self-propelled howitzer. The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine published footage of the strike on August 23.
The operation was preceded by reconnaissance efforts that revealed a concentration of enemy troops attempting to retreat from Ukrainian positions. The border guard pilots quickly mobilized to intercept the movement before it could disperse.
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During the engagement, four motorcycles used by russian troops were destroyed, eliminating at least five so-called bikers. These motorcycles have increasingly been used by russian forces for quick movements across the frontline, but their lack of protection makes them highly vulnerable to Ukrainian strikes.
In addition to neutralizing the mobile group, Ukrainian forces also targeted heavier equipment. Two trucks carrying supplies or personnel were destroyed in the strike. This not only inflicted direct losses but also disrupted enemy logistics in the sector.
A key achievement of the operation was the elimination of russian Msta-S self-propelled howitzer, one of the main artillery systems used by Moscow's troops to shell Ukrainian positions. The destruction of such a weapon system significantly reduces the enemy's ability to conduct sustained fire missions in the area.
Overall, Ukrainian forces reported that around ten russian soldiers were killed during the strikes. These losses add to the mounting pressure on the occupying forces, already facing shortages of manpower and equipment across several sectors of the front.
The Phoenix unit's operation demonstrates the growing efficiency of Ukraine's border guard pilots in combining reconnaissance with rapid precision strikes. By targeting both personnel and high-value equipment, they continue to weaken the russian militar's combat capabilities and improve security along the frontline in Donetsk region.
As Defense Express previously reported, the Bratstvo unit, part of the Timur Special Detachment of the Defense Intelligence, together with fighters from the russian Volunteer Corps, successfully carried out a combat operation in Donetsk region. The mission aimed to halt russian offensive actions in a sector that posed a threat to Ukrainian forces.
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