Russia Targets Ukrainian Airfields Ahead of F-16 Arrival, Strikes Su-27 Jets

Russia on Tuesday struck the Dolgintsevo airfield in Ukraine destroying two Su-27 fighters following last week's strike on the Mirgorod aerodrome where seven Su-27s were hit with Iskandar missiles.

Russian analysts say the targeting of airfields is meant to prevent the Ukrainian air force from operating F-16 fighter jets which are expected to start operations later this summer.

Following last week's assault on Mirgorod aerodrome, where seven Su-27s were hit by Iskander missiles, Russian operations extended to Dolgintsevo airfield near Krivoy Rog.

Reports confirm that two Su-27 fighters were destroyed in the latest attack, adding to the significant damage inflicted on Ukrainian air capabilities. Additionally, a MiG-29 fighter, ammunition supplies, ground equipment, and approximately 15 personnel were also confirmed as casualties of the strike. Two Su-25 attack aircraft sustained damage during the assault.

The strikes are strategically aimed at limiting Ukraine's air force operations, particularly targeting airfields expected to house incoming F-16 fighter jets. Analysts suggest that the intensified targeting reflects Russian efforts to preemptively neutralize Ukrainian capabilities before the anticipated deployment of advanced aircraft later this summer.

In addition to military targets, Russian missile units also targeted the Yuzhmash plant in Dnepropetrovsk, a facility crucial for assembling Neptune missiles, rockets for the Vilkha MLRS, and attack drones. The strikes inflicted significant damage on the plant's workshops, disrupting production and operational capabilities.

The Russian Iskander OTRK crews continue to deploy with precision, causing substantial damage to both military installations and strategic industrial sites.

The first F-16s are anticipated to arrive in Ukraine this month. These aircraft are crucial for potentially neutralizing devastating glide bombs deployed by Russian forces along the front lines.

Official details regarding the bases for the F-16s remain undisclosed. However, Moscow indicated its targeting strategy after the recent strike on Starokostiantyniv last Thursday, aiming at airfields likely to accommodate these advanced jets.

Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, the air base has been a frequent target, facing attacks from drones and hypersonic missiles from the early stages of the conflict.