Ukraine launched a drone attack on a key Russian strategic bomber airfield on Thursday, resulting in a massive explosion and fire nearly 700 kilometers (435 miles) from the front lines, according to both Russian and Ukrainian officials. The strike targeted the Engels air base, which is home to Russia’s fleet of Tupolev Tu-160 nuclear-capable heavy bombers, known as White Swans.
Verified footage analyzed by Reuters captured the moment a powerful blast engulfed the area, with shockwaves damaging nearby cottages. Additional videos confirmed a thick plume of smoke rising into the sky as an intense fire raged. The Russian defense ministry reported that its air defenses had intercepted 132 Ukrainian drones across several Russian regions.
Roman Busargin, the governor of Saratov, acknowledged that a Ukrainian drone attack had taken place in the city of Engels, leading to a fire at an airfield. While he did not specifically name the Engels base, it remains the primary airfield in the area. The Ukrainian defense ministry later confirmed that its forces had successfully hit the airfield, causing secondary explosions from ammunition stores. Kyiv has long accused Russia of using the Engels base to launch airstrikes against Ukrainian territory.
Local officials reported that at least ten people were injured in the attack. Some residents were surprised to discover remnants of Ukrainian drones scattered in their gardens. Reports from the Shot Telegram channel indicated that Ukraine used PD-2 and Liutyi drones for the assault. Engels district head Maxim Leonov stated that a local state of emergency had been declared, though he provided limited additional details.
