In a significant development, Ukraine claimed to have struck a Russian Su-57 stealth jet for the first time on June 9, 2024. The attack took place at the Akhtubinsk airbase in southern Russia, approximately 589 kilometers (366 miles) from the front lines. According to intelligence reports from Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate of its Ministry of Defense and satellite images shared by Kyiv, this marks a significant milestone as it is Ukraine's first known successful strike on Moscow's most advanced fighter plane.
The Su-57 stealth jet, considered Russia's most advanced fighter plane, has been a topic of interest due to its limited number and the sensitivity of its technology. Russia has tried to keep these jets hidden from the war in Ukraine out of fear of reputational damage and potential loss if they are shot down.
The attack on June 9 exposed a lack of hangars to protect the stealth jets, according to Russian military bloggers. The exact method by which Ukraine carried out the strike was not specified in any of the sources.
This event comes weeks after President Joe Biden approved guidance allowing American arms to be used for the limited purpose of defending Kharkiv. It is important to note that this attack does not indicate a shift in U.S. policy towards direct involvement in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
The Su-57, a fifth-generation fighter jet developed by Sukhoi, is known for its advanced capabilities and stealth technology. The Russian military has a limited number of these jets, making each one valuable to both sides in the ongoing conflict.
This article aims to provide a factual account of the situation based on available information from multiple sources. It is important to remain skeptical and consider potential biases when interpreting news reports.