Ukraine Strikes 41 Russian Bombers with Drones; Underwater Attack Hits Kerch Bridge

Ukrainian Forces Report Strikes on 41 Russian Aircraft in Operation Spiderweb

Ukraine's General Staff announced on June 3 that its forces had struck 41 Russian military aircraft, including strategic bombers, as part of Operation Spiderweb. According to an official statement, the tally was confirmed after thorough cross-verification from multiple sources. Details on the specific aircraft types or the degree of damage remain undisclosed.

Security officials revealed that the operation targeted Russian A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M3 aircraft parked at the Belaya, Diaghilev, Olenya, and Ivanovo air bases. The strike on June 1 reportedly involved 117 drones, remotely launched from concealed positions within Russia. Ukrainian authorities suggest these losses constitute up to 34% of Russia's strategic bomber fleet.

Expanding Capabilities in Unmanned Warfare

Throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine has advanced its use of drone technology, employing a variety of ground, air, and maritime drones in both offensive and reconnaissance roles. In May alone, Ukrainian forces claim to have targeted over 89,000 Russian positions using assorted drones.

Efforts are underway in Ukraine to expand domestic weapons production, with the development of hybrid missile-drones such as the Palianytsia and Peklo models. These new additions utilize turbojet engines and are designed as alternatives to conventional cruise missiles. According to the Ministry of Strategic Industries, Ukraine had introduced 324 new weapon types by the end of 2024, underscoring a rapid acceleration in indigenous military innovation.

Underwater Explosives Target Kerch Bridge Connecting Russia and Crimea

In a separate operation, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) disclosed on June 4 that its agents carried out an underwater attack on the bridge linking Russia to occupied Crimea, commonly referred to as the Crimean or Kerch Bridge. The SBU reported that 1,100 kilograms of explosives were placed around the bridge’s support pillars, detonating the charge at 4:44 a.m. local time.

This marks the third such attack on the critical infrastructure since the onset of the conflict. While the full extent of the latest damage remains unconfirmed, bridge traffic was temporarily suspended following the blast, with disruptions extending to maritime routes in the adjacent waters near Sevastopol.

Strategic and Symbolic Impact of Bridge Strikes

The Crimean Bridge has served as a vital logistical route for Russian military operations in Ukraine. In addition to its operational role, it holds significant political symbolism for Russia, having been inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin in 2018 following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The bridge’s repeated targeting thus carries both strategic and psychological implications for the ongoing conflict.

SBU Head Vasyl Malyuk described the bridge as a "legitimate target," citing its use in transporting supplies to Russian troops. Previous attacks on the bridge in October 2022 and July 2023 led to swift repair efforts by the Russian government.

Broader Implications of Recent Operations

These latest developments highlight both Ukraine's increasing reliance on advanced, domestically-produced technology and its focus on high-value military and infrastructure targets deep within Russian territory. The attacks, which include unprecedented drone swarms against strategic bombers and innovative underwater demolition operations, signal evolving tactics as the war enters another year. Ukrainian defense officials continue to emphasize the dual goals of reducing Russia’s offensive capabilities and imposing significant logistical costs on its military operations.