Ukraine says it shot down another Russian A-50 surveillance plane

Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleschuk announced the successful downing of a Russian A-50 surveillance aircraft near the city of Yeysk in Russia’s southern Krasnodar region. The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry provided crucial support for this operation, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Oleschuk expressed his gratitude to the intelligence team in a Telegram post on Friday, stating, “I am grateful to the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry and all those who ensured the result.” The Ukrainian forces are actively engaged in their operations, working to ensure the country’s security and defense.

According to the Main Intelligence Directorate, the Russian A-50 aircraft was used as an air command post for long-range radar detection, control, and guidance for missile strikes on Ukraine. The surveillance aircraft, with an estimated value of $350 million, was a crucial component of Russia’s strategic aviation operations targeting Ukraine.

This recent incident follows a similar event from the previous month when Valery Zaluzhny, then chief commander of the armed forces of Ukraine, reported the destruction of a Russian A-50 plane in an area near the Sea of Azov. The Ukrainian military continues to take proactive measures to protect its airspace and sovereignty against potential threats.

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia remains a critical issue, with military exchanges such as the downing of the Russian A-50 surveillance aircraft highlighting the escalating tensions between the two countries. The Ukrainian military’s ability to neutralize such threats demonstrates their determination to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and security.