Ukrainian strike cripples Crimean airbase, destroys Russian assets

The attack on the Belbek Crimean base carried out using ATACMS missiles, was exceptionally successful. Even the Russians admit to the loss of aircraft like the MiG-31 and the S-300 and S-400 anti-aircraft systems.

On the night of 14 to 15 May, Ukrainians attacked the Belbek airbase in Crimea. Although there is currently no reliable data on the scale of the attack, it must have been significant. According to residents, up to 20 explosions were heard, and the Russians – albeit one must consider the propaganda – boast of shooting down as many as 10 missiles.

They certainly didn't intercept all of them, as indicated by other Russian sources –valuable equipment was destroyed as a result of the attack.

The list includes, among others, a destroyed MiG-31, three damaged Su-27s, and also systems responsible for the base's security in the form of S-300 and newer S-400 launchers, support vehicles, as well as a 92N6E fire control radar working with the S-400.

It is not yet known which variant of the MiG-31 was destroyed. One possibility is the MiG-31BM, a modernized interceptor with a new radar station and integrated new R-37 missiles.

The other probable variant of the destroyed MiG is the MiG-31K, adapted to carry Ch-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missiles. In both versions, it is the fastest currently operated combat aircraft in the world.

The previous MiG-31, which the Russians lost at the Belbek base, was a MiG-31BM variant that ran off the runway. As noted by Defence24, the latest available satellite images indicate that before the Ukrainian attack, at least eight combat aircraft were on unshielded positions at the base.

According to residents, several explosions were heard a few minutes after the attack, which the destruction of ammunition depots could probably explain.

This is confirmed by satellite reconnaissance – NASA data from the FIRMS (Fire Information for Resource Management System) showed at least five fire spots in the base area.