Ukraine strikes air base in Crimea, destroys Russian air defense system and 3 helicopters
Illustrative photo: SBU attacked Kirovske airfield in Crimea on June 28 (facebook com SecurSerUkraine)
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) struck at the Kirovske military air base in occupied Crimea on the night of June 28. Three Russian helicopters and a Pantsir-S1 system were destroyed, reports SBU.
The locations of the aviation, air defense facilities, ammunition storage facilities, as well as reconnaissance and attack drones of the enemy, were targeted.
As a result of the operation, the SBU destroyed three Russian multi-purpose and attack helicopters Mi-8, Mi-26, and Mi-28, as well as a self-propelled anti-aircraft missile and gun system Pantsir-S1.
Secondary detonations took place at the airfield during the night.
“The SBU is systematically working to reduce Russia's capabilities to conduct air and bomb strikes on the territory of Ukraine. The occupiers must realize that their expensive military equipment and ammunition are not protected anywhere: neither on the front line, nor in the temporarily occupied territories, nor in the deep rear of the enemy,” the statement said.
Reference. Pantsir-S1 is a Russian self-propelled anti-aircraft missile and gun system. It is used to provide close cover for objects against air attack. It can also protect objects from ground and surface threats.
The system was created in 1994 and then modernized. Pantsir-S1 was adopted by the Russian army in 2012.
Explosions in Crimea
The Crimean Wind Telegram channel reported that on the night of June 28, five to six explosions were heard near the Kirovske airfield. Locals heard the sounds of drones flying overhead.
Later, a video of the explosions was posted online, probably caused by the detonation of a munition at the airfield.
Crimean Wind also showed satellite images of the fire at Kirovske air base.
