Ukraine destroys Russian Tu-134 military leadership aircraft

Ukraine destroyed a Russian Tu-134 military transport aircraft belonging to Russia’s 117th Military Transport Aviation Regiment on the night of 12-13 October, according to Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR).

Ukraine targets aircraft like the Tu-134 because it is used for transporting high-ranking Russian military officials, making it a strategic asset in Russia’s command and control infrastructure during the war. By attacking such aircraft, Ukraine aims to disrupt Russian military operations, communications, and decision-making.

The incident occurred at the Orenburg-2 airfield, suggesting potential implications for Russia’s military logistics and command capabilities, according to HUR.

The cause of the fire was not specified by HUR, but most likely it was sabotage.

On 11 September, Ukrainian military forces also successfully shot down a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet over the Black Sea using a MANPADS (Man-Portable Air Defense System). The jet, which had been firing missiles at mainland Ukraine, was part of Russia’s 43rd Naval Aviation Regiment based in occupied Crimea.

Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian defense forces have reportedly destroyed 369 Russian planes and 329 helicopters, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

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