Illustrative photo
Over the weekend, the Ukrainian Air Force successfully shot down four Russian aircraft, including three Su-34s and one Su-35. Valeriy Ryabykh, Development Director of the information and consulting company Defense Express, discussed the details on Hromadske Radio.
Ryabykh explained that the Ukrainian forces make strategic use of available means to inflict maximum damage on the enemy. Despite the transparent nature of the battlefield, where both sides are well-informed, the skill of the Ukrainian military remains crucial.
The recent successful downing of four Su-34s and one Su-35, resulting in the enemy’s losses exceeding $150 million, likely involved the use of an ambush, possibly organized with long-range air defense systems. Ryabykh mentioned the potential use of the Patriot air defense system, capable of hitting enemy air targets up to 160 km away. Theoretically, similar shootdowns could be achieved using FrankenSAMs, combining Patriot launchers with Ukrainian radars. Ryabykh also discussed the possibility of using air-to-air missiles, but noted that the current Ukrainian aircraft may not be equipped for such long-distance engagements.
Despite sanctions and restrictions on spare part supplies to Russia, the enemy continues to produce these modern aircraft. Ryabykh highlighted the significant losses incurred by Russia during the full-scale war, with at least a third of the reported 105 Su-34s destroyed. These tactical fighter-bombers are capable of launching guided bombs from considerable distances. The enemy also persists in the production of Su-35s, each costing between $40-60 million, according to Ryabykh.