In a stunning and unprecedented strike, three Ukrainian drones penetrated deep into Russian territory, obliterating a key airbase and sending shockwaves through military circles. At 4:24 a.m. on June 26, 2025, the Marinoa Air Base in the Vulgrad region was transformed into a smoldering ruin in less than three minutes, as the drones executed a meticulously planned operation that destroyed two of Russia’s most advanced SU-34 strike fighters and a bomb depot.

This audacious nighttime raid, which cost Ukraine less than $100,000, showcased their evolving drone capabilities and strategic intelligence. The drones, launched from Suma Province, flew low over the Dawn River, evading Russian radar systems and entering the airbase undetected. Ukrainian intelligence had been tracking the facility for weeks, identifying vulnerabilities that would allow them to strike with devastating precision.

As the drones split into formation, the first drone targeted a fully armed SU-34, igniting a catastrophic chain reaction that engulfed the aircraft in flames. The second drone followed suit, striking another fighter jet on the tarmac, while the third targeted the bomb depot, resulting in an explosion that was visible for miles. The total damage is estimated at over $150 million, crippling Russia’s ability to launch air offensives in Eastern Ukraine.

Russian state media quickly labeled the attack as an act of desperation, but military experts see it as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict. Former U.S. Navy Admiral James Stavridis remarked on the effectiveness of Ukraine’s asymmetric warfare tactics, highlighting the rapid evolution of their drone program.

This strike not only dismantled key Russian assets but also exposed critical flaws in their air defense network. As the dust settles, the question looms: where will Ukraine strike next? With the balance of power shifting, one thing is clear—nowhere in Russia is safe from Ukrainian precision strikes.