Analysis & Reports

Ukrainian forces conducted a series of strikes against 172 Russian naval and maritime-linked vessels in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov from July 5 to July 19. These operations targeted key logistics assets, including ferries and tankers, significantly disrupting Russian supply routes to Crimea. The attacks are part of a broader campaign to increase the operational costs for Russia in the region.

Alexandra ReevesSun Jul 19 2026Loading...

A Tu-95MS was reportedly destroyed at Engels airbase on July 19, 2026, indicating vulnerabilities in Russian strategic aviation. This incident reflects Ukraine's expanding operational capabilities to target Russian military infrastructure. The loss of the aircraft may lead to increased security measures at Russian airbases, impacting their operational effectiveness.

Dmitri VolkovSun Jul 19 2026Loading...

A satellite image confirmed the destruction of a Tu-95 bomber at Engels air base in Russia on July 16, 2023, following a drone strike. This loss represents a significant reduction in Russia's long-range strike capacity, as the Tu-95 is an aging aircraft that cannot be easily replaced. The incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in Russia's air defense and bomber protection efforts.

Russia intercepted and destroyed 140 Ukrainian drones between 20:00 on the 18th and 08:00 on the 19th in Moscow and Belgorod Oblasts. Ukraine reported that from 18:00 on the 18th to the early morning of the 19th, Russia launched 41 missiles and 125 drones, including 10 Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles, targeting Kyiv. Ukraine successfully shot down 126 targets, resulting in 1 death and 16 injuries in Kyiv.

Ukrainian forces struck 172 Russian maritime vessels over 13 days, prompting the withdrawal of up to 200 drone units from the front lines to protect logistics. This operation targeted key maritime assets in the Black and Azov Seas, impacting Russian supply chains. Concurrently, Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure in occupied territories further strained Russian military logistics.

Dmitri VolkovSun Jul 19 2026Loading...

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted drone strikes on Russian logistics hubs in Tambov and Moscow Oblasts from July 17 to 18, 2023, resulting in 9 deaths and dozens of injuries. The strikes targeted key facilities used for military logistics, including an oil facility. In response, Russian air defense claimed to have intercepted 379 drones during the attacks.

Ukrainian drones attacked a logistics center in Moscow Oblast on July 17-18, 2023, resulting in 30 injuries and 1 death. The attack caused significant damage, including a fire at a nearby kindergarten, which was extinguished without casualties. Smoke from the incident was visible from several kilometers away.

Ukrainian forces conducted long-range strikes on October 18, 2023, targeting logistics facilities in Moscow and Tambov Oblasts, as well as an oil facility. These strikes were aimed at disrupting the transportation of sanctioned components for military production. Additional strikes were reported in the Sea of Azov, Black Sea, and Crimea.

UAV attacks on July 18, 2026, resulted in seven deaths and 25 injuries in Kotovsk, Tambov Oblast, as drones targeted sensitive infrastructure, including an oil depot in Noginsk. The attacks prompted evacuations and highlighted vulnerabilities in Moscow's air defense system, with 28 drones intercepted before reaching their targets. Ukrainian forces continue to focus on disrupting Russian military logistics.

Dmitri VolkovSat Jul 18 2026Loading...

Russian forces conducted 19 cluster strikes targeting Ukrainian ports and military infrastructure on the 17th, while Ukrainian forces repelled attacks and shot down 1879 drones. Ukrainian forces also launched long-range strikes against Russian targets, including a successful attack on the Engels Air Base, damaging a Tu-95 strategic bomber. Both sides continue to engage in active military operations across multiple fronts.

The Ukrainian Security Service conducted a drone strike on a Tu-95 strategic bomber at Engels military airport in Saratov Oblast, Russia, on July 17. The bomber was severely damaged, with its tail completely detached. This operation aimed to weaken Russian military and economic capabilities, indicating that even remote military installations are no longer safe for Russian forces.

On July 17, 2023, the Ukrainian Security Service destroyed a Tu-95 bomber in Engels, Russia, approximately 800 kilometers from Ukraine. This incident highlights the ongoing degradation of Russian strategic aviation capabilities, as the Tu-95 is a rare asset that cannot be quickly replaced. The attack signifies Ukraine's effective long-range strike capabilities against Russian military infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

Russia has begun modifying its Molniya attack drones by adding magnetic compasses and onboard cameras to enhance navigation capabilities, particularly in environments where satellite signals are jammed. This development, reported by Ukrainian defense advisor Serhii Beskrestnov, highlights a cost-effective approach to drone technology amidst ongoing electronic warfare. The modifications allow these drones to operate independently of GPS systems, making them more resilient against jamming tactics.

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) destroyed a Tupolev Tu-95 strategic bomber at Engels airfield in Russia in July 2025. This operation is part of Ukraine's ongoing long-range strikes against Russian military targets. The Tu-95 had been utilized by Russia for missile strikes against Ukraine, and its destruction represents a significant loss for Russia's strategic bomber fleet.

The Admiral Nakhimov, a Kirov-class battlecruiser, is undergoing modernization to enhance its capabilities as the flagship of the Russian Northern Fleet. It features advanced weapon systems, including P-700 Granit and Kalibr missiles, and is powered by nuclear reactors. However, its effectiveness may be challenged by modern warfare tactics involving drones and missile swarms. The ship's significant size and armament raise questions about its vulnerability in contemporary naval engagements.

On July 16, Russia transferred 501 deceased military personnel to Ukraine, while Ukraine transferred 31 bodies to Russia. The exchange took place in Gomel, Belarus, which will continue to facilitate future exchanges of prisoners and deceased personnel between the two countries.

Ukrainian forces successfully struck two Russian oil tankers, 'Louise 1' and 'Banda', using a maritime drone in the Black Sea on October 16. These vessels have been responsible for oil transportation for Russia. The Russian side has not yet responded to this incident.

Ukrainian forces conducted drone operations on July 15, 2023, targeting 20 vessels in the Black Sea, including oil tankers and a tugboat. This operation is part of a larger campaign against Russian maritime logistics, which has seen intensified strikes on Odessa and surrounding areas. The Ukrainian military aims to disrupt Russian shipping and oil transport, reflecting a shift in the maritime conflict dynamics.

Dmitri VolkovThu Jul 16 2026Loading...

Ukrainian drones struck Russia's Engels air base overnight into July 16, causing explosions and a fire. The attack targeted the military airfield, which hosts strategic bombers, and was confirmed by multiple sources. Reports indicate that drones with a new design were used, and Russian air defenses were active during the incident.

Russian forces conducted strikes on Ukrainian military facilities, including drone storage and logistics centers, on the 15th. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces reported targeting a Russian Mi-28 helicopter in Belgorod and intercepting numerous Russian drones. The conflict saw 73 battles reported on the front lines that day.