On June 1, 2025, Ukraine executed a meticulously planned drone assault, codenamed "Operation Spider's Web," targeting multiple Russian airbases deep within Russian territory. The operation involved 117 drones launched from concealed positions, striking airbases including Belaya in Irkutsk and Olenya in Murmansk. Satellite imagery and drone footage confirm the destruction and damage of several Russian strategic bombers, notably the Tu-22 and Tu-95 models, which are integral to Russia's long-range missile capabilities. The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) claims the attack resulted in damage to 41 aircraft, estimating the financial impact at $7 billion and affecting approximately 34% of Russia's strategic cruise missile carriers.
The success of Operation Spider's Web is attributed to innovative tactics employed by Ukrainian operatives. Drones were ingeniously concealed within the roofs of wooden sheds, transported by trucks to the vicinity of the targeted airbases. Once in position, the drones were remotely activated to carry out the strikes. This method allowed Ukraine to penetrate deep into Russian territory, with the Belaya airbase strike marking the longest-range drone attack of the conflict to date. The operation, which took over 18 months to plan, underscores Ukraine's evolving capabilities in asymmetric warfare.
The loss of strategic bombers presents a significant challenge for Russia. Many of the affected aircraft, such as the Tu-95 and Tu-22M3, are no longer in production, making replacements difficult. Military analysts suggest that replenishing these assets could take years, potentially diminishing Russia's capacity to conduct long-range missile strikes. The attack may compel Russia to reevaluate its air defense strategies and consider dispersing its bomber fleet to mitigate future risks.
Operation Spider's Web is part of a broader Ukrainian strategy to disrupt Russian military operations. On the same day, Ukraine's Security Service announced an attack on the Crimean Bridge using 1,100 kilograms of underwater explosives, targeting the bridge's structural supports. Although Russian authorities reported temporary disruptions, the bridge resumed operations shortly after. These coordinated attacks aim to impair Russia's logistical and operational capabilities.
The international community has taken note of Ukraine's recent military actions. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen remarked on Ukraine's apparent success in defending itself, referencing the recent attacks on Russian airbases. She emphasized Ukraine's right to self-defense and called for increased efforts to bolster Europe's eastern defenses. These developments occur amid ongoing peace talks, where significant gaps remain between Russian and Ukrainian positions.
The Kremlin has acknowledged that several aircraft caught fire during the attacks and has initiated investigations into the incidents. While the immediate impact on Russia's military capabilities is substantial, the long-term implications will depend on Russia's ability to adapt its strategies and replenish its assets. Ukraine's successful deep strikes demonstrate its growing proficiency in unconventional warfare, potentially altering the dynamics of the ongoing conflict