Operation Spider's Web: How Ukraine targeted Russian airfield over 4000 km away with armed drones, destroy nuclear bombers

Time of India

5 days ago

Operation Spider's Web: a strategic drone offensive
Ukraine launched Operation Spider's Web, a meticulously planned drone assault targeting four Russian airbases: Olenya, Belaya, Ivanovo, and Dyagilevo, on June 1, 2025. The operation, personally overseen by President Volodymyr Zelensky, involved the deployment of 117 drones, resulting in the destruction of over 40 Russian military aircraft, including strategic bombers such as the Tu-22M3, Tu-95, and the A-50 AWACS.
Zelensky praised the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), General Vasyl Maliuk, and all involved operatives, confirming that the operation took over a year and a half to prepare. 'Planning, organization, every detail was perfectly executed. I can say with certainty that this is an absolutely unique operation,' he stated. Zelensky also revealed that the base of the operation inside Russia was situated directly next to an FSB headquarters in one of the regions, a detail now made public.
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He further detailed the operation's scale: 'In total, 117 drones were used in the operation – with a corresponding number of drone operators involved. 34% of the strategic cruise missile carriers stationed at air bases were hit. Our personnel operated across multiple Russian regions – in three different time zones. And the people who assisted us were withdrawn from Russian territory before the operation, they are now safe. Glory to Ukraine!'
The drones were ingeniously concealed within modified trucks, with launch mechanisms hidden under remote-controlled roofs. These trucks were strategically positioned near the targeted airbases, allowing for a surprise attack that penetrated deep into Russian territory, some sites being over 4,300 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.
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Tactical execution and technological innovation
Operation Spider's Web showcased Ukraine's advancements in
drone warfare
and strategic planning. The drones, equipped with artificial intelligence targeting systems, were capable of identifying and striking critical components of the aircraft, such as fuel tanks, maximizing damage.
The success of the strike was attributed to over 18 months of covert preparation, including smuggling drones across borders and establishing bases within Russia. These bases were reportedly set up close to Russian intelligence facilities, a factor that enabled the successful launch of drones from behind enemy lines.
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Strategic impact on Russian military capabilities
The destruction of a significant portion of Russia's strategic bomber fleet, estimated at over one-third, dealt a substantial blow to its long-range aerial capabilities. The damage inflicted by the operation is estimated at around $7 billion.
The hit to Russia's Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 fleet also undermines its ability to conduct future missile strikes from air platforms, reducing strategic flexibility. The A-50 airborne radar systems, critical for battlefield surveillance, were also among the casualties, marking another key loss.
This operation not only impaired Russia's ability to launch long-range attacks but also exposed significant vulnerabilities in its air defense coverage. The effectiveness of the operation has prompted a reassessment of Russian security protocols around key military infrastructure.
Implications for future military engagements
Operation Spider's Web represents a turning point in the use of unmanned systems in strategic warfare. Ukraine's ability to organize a multi-regional operation with high-value targets and low personnel risk demonstrates a shift in modern military doctrine.
The use of AI-enabled drones, covert staging near FSB facilities, and cross-time-zone coordination reinforces Ukraine's evolving capability to conduct asymmetric operations with maximum efficiency. This successful strike is expected to influence drone warfare planning by allied nations and adversaries alike.
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As the war continues, Ukraine's integration of technological innovation into battlefield strategies may redefine conflict in the 21st century, altering global defense and intelligence priorities in the months ahead.