Ukraine destroys four Russian jets in Shagol airfield strike, commander shows aftermath
Photo: Russian Su-57 (Getty Images)
Ukrainian drones struck Russian Su-57 and Su-34 aircraft at the Shagol airfield in Russia. The targets were located 1,700 kilometers from the border, according to the commander of Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, Robert "Madyar" Brovdi.
Number of aircraft hit
According to Madyar, the strike on the Shagol military airfield in Russia’s Chelyabinsk region took place on April 25, 2026.
As a result of the operation by Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, several pieces of equipment were hit. Follow-up reconnaissance confirmed damage to at least four aircraft:
- two Su-57 fighter jets;
- one Su-34 fighter-bomber;
- one aircraft of an unidentified modification.
Satellite images show cleanup efforts after the Ukrainian strike, with damaged aircraft moved to other, restricted sections of the airfield. A service vehicle located between the Su-57 jets was also destroyed.
Significance of the strike
According to the commander, hitting such aircraft is critical to reducing the enemy’s strike capability. The Su-34 is a key strike platform used to attack critical infrastructure and civilian targets from distances of up to 1,000 kilometers.
"Every destroyed Su-34 means fewer airstrikes, saved civilian lives, and reduced pressure on air defense systems," Madyar said.
In addition, the Su-57 is a modern fifth-generation fighter equipped with stealth technology, posing a particular threat. The cost of one Su-34 is estimated at $35–50 million, while a Su-57 costs around $100–120 million.
Strikes deep inside Russia
Earlier, Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed an operation aimed at reducing Russia’s strike capability, during which Russian military aircraft were hit at a remote airfield.
In addition, Ukraine’s Defense Forces once again struck the Tuapse oil refinery in Russia, where a large fire broke out following explosions.
Ukrainian forces have also recently used new tactics against Shahed drones, destroying an aerial target with a drone launched from an unmanned surface platform.
