In a daring and innovative operation dubbed “Spider’s Web,” Ukraine launched a long-range drone strike on Russian military air bases, targeting strategic bombers deep inside Russian territory. According to Ukrainian security sources, explosive-laden drones were concealed in wooden sheds transported by trucks to the edges of four different airbases, including the Belaya air base in eastern Siberia—more than 4,300 km from the front lines.
Once in position, the shed roofs were remotely opened to release the drones, which reportedly damaged or destroyed 41 aircraft. Though Reuters could not independently verify the number, videos on Russian social media show bombers in flames and drones launching from disguised trucks near the Belaya air base.
The Irkutsk region facility hosts Tu-22M and Tu-95 strategic bombers, both used in missile strikes against Ukraine. Governor Igor Kobzev confirmed a drone attack near the base but did not provide details.
The Ukrainian source said the mission was overseen by President Volodymyr Zelensky and SBU intelligence chief Vasyl Maliuk. Drone footage reportedly shows bombers ablaze, marking what could be Ukraine’s most impactful drone strike of the war.