Kyiv, Jun 02 (V7N) — Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has claimed a major blow to the Russian air force, announcing that more than 40 bombers were destroyed in a coordinated drone strike on Russian air bases deep inside the country.

The SBU described the operation as one of its boldest and most far-reaching attacks to date. According to Ukrainian officials, the Belaya air base in Russia’s Irkutsk region of Siberia and the Olenya air base in the Murmansk region of northern Russia were targeted in the strikes.

The airbases reportedly host long-range bombers that Ukraine alleges are used by Russia to launch strategic missile attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian areas.

“This is not just a tactical success, but a strategic message: Ukraine can reach far into Russian territory and deliver precise blows to military assets,” an SBU spokesperson said.

Reuters reported the statement from Ukraine on Sunday (June 2) but noted that it could not independently verify the claims.

Meanwhile, Russian state media confirmed that drone attacks were launched at one of the airbases and that air defense systems had been activated, but the Russian military has yet to comment on the extent of any damage or casualties.

This comes amid increasing use of long-range drones by Kyiv, signaling a shift in tactics as Ukraine attempts to offset Russia's air superiority with asymmetrical strikes.

END/MSS/AJ