Russian Aviation Takes a Hit: Possible Loss of Two A-50 Aircraft in Drone Attacks
Russia reports significant military setback with loss of two critical airplane assets.
In the aftermath of the drone assaults on multiple Russian military airfields, new details are emerging. Reports suggest that Ukrainian drones may have targeted rare early-warning aircraft, potentially leading to significant consequences for the deployment of glide bombs.
The Ukrainian drone attacks have reportedly damaged, if not destroyed, at least two A-50 early warning aircraft [1][3]. The British "Telegraph" reports this, citing intelligence sources. The A-50s, which are rapidly diminishing in number, play a critical role in orchestrating air operations and selecting targets.
Journalist Michael Weiss of "The Insider" shared a video showing Ukrainian drones striking two Russian A-50 planes. Jimmy Rushton, another colleague, reported that the drones made direct contact with the radar domes of at least two early-warning aircraft before detonating [1]. Unfortunately, the footage and the aforementioned video have yet to be publicly released. It remains unclear whether the A-50s were completely obliterated.
The Ukrainian intelligence service SBU has also reported hits on one or more A-50s. Military expert Gustav Gressel told ntv.de that Russia is down to six to seven operational A-50s, possibly leaving only four to five functioning [1].
Gressel notes that the potential loss of multiple A-50s could significantly impact the Russian air forces, particularly their glide bomb attacks. These bombings are a significant challenge for Ukrainian defenders, alongside fiberglass drones—the most formidable adversary currently facing them [1].
The extent of the damages may exceed just two A-50s. A total of 41 aircraft of various types were reportedly hit [1]. It is worth noting that last year, Ukraine claimed to have destroyed two A-50 aircraft [1].
This series of drone attacks, codenamed "Spider Web," on June 1, 2025, targeted numerous Russian Aerospace Forces facilities, including the Olenya, Dyagilevo, and Belaya airbases. The operation involved FPV drones and resulted in the damage or destruction of more than 40 Russian military aircraft [2][4].
[1] ntv.de, rog[2] cnn.com[3] military-today.com[4] defense-blog.com
In light of the recent drone attacks on Russian military airfields, it's crucial for both the community policy and employment policy within the Russian Aerospace Industry to address the potential security vulnerabilities and devise effective strategies to deter similar incidents in the future. The financial implications of this incident could be significant as the potential loss of multiple A-50 early warning aircraft may disrupt the industry's aerospace operations and employment policy, possibly affecting hundreds of personnel.
