On June 1, 2025, Ukraine executed a significant drone offensive deep within Russian territory, marking one of the most impactful strikes of the ongoing conflict. The operation, codenamed “Operation Spider Web,” targeted four major Russian airbases: Belaya, Dyagilevo, Ivanovo Severny, and Olenya. According to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the attack resulted in the destruction of over 40 Russian military aircraft, including strategic bombers such as the Tu-95, Tu-22M3, and A-50 AWACS planes .
This meticulously planned operation spanned 18 months and involved the covert transportation of first-person-view (FPV) drones into Russia. These drones were concealed within wooden crates mounted on trucks, with remotely operated roofs that opened to launch the drones at the designated time . The innovative tactic allowed Ukraine to bypass Russian air defenses and strike targets deep within the country.
The financial impact of the attack is substantial, with estimated damages exceeding $2 billion. The loss includes several high-value aircraft integral to Russia’s long-range bombing capabilities . The Institute for the Study of War noted that the destruction of multiple Tu-95 bombers could represent a loss of approximately 5% of Russia’s fleet of these aircraft, a significant blow to its strategic air power .
In response to the attack, Russia has not issued an official statement regarding the extent of the damages. However, the incident has prompted concerns about the vulnerability of Russian military infrastructure and may lead to the relocation of aircraft and air defense systems further from the front lines, potentially reducing the effectiveness of Russian air operations near Ukraine
The drone strikes occurred just ahead of scheduled peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul. Despite the escalation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the country’s participation in the negotiations, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia .
This operation underscores Ukraine’s increasing capability to conduct complex, long-range attacks using domestically developed drone technology, signaling a shift in the dynamics of the conflict and challenging Russia’s air superiority.
