A significant loss for the enemy — Musienko on the downing of the Russian A-50U

The destruction of the second A-50U aircraft is a significant blow to the enemy, resulting in reduced capabilities and capacities for reconnaissance of Ukraine’s airspace.

Oleksandr Musienko, Head of the Centre for Military Legal Studies, reported this on Hromadske Radio:

«The news is positive because this is the second such aircraft, likely the A-50U, with the ‘U’ indicating modernization. It featured an enhanced surveillance system, radar, and electronics, enabling the collection of information about the airspace over a specific part of Ukraine. This aided in adjusting the flights of their own aircraft. The loss of the second such aircraft is a substantial setback for the enemy, diminishing their reconnaissance capabilities over Ukrainian airspace. It’s also part of Ukraine’s preparation for the deployment of F-16s, allowing them to operate more openly. This move is aimed at countering Russian aviation and Ukrainian attack and bombing aircraft, targeting enemy positions on the contact line and in the rear.»

Musienko highlighted that depriving Russia of such aircraft makes the flights of Russian Su-34s, used for dropping guided bombs, even more risky.

On February 23, the Ukrainian military successfully shot down a Russian A-50 long-range radar detection aircraft.

Intelligence reports indicate that the Russians lost an A-50U long-range radar detection aircraft on the same day.

Following the downing of the A-50U, the Russians ordered the suspension of missions for two Su-35 aircraft and three Su-34s conducting flights near Millerovo. Some of them had plans to carry out air strikes near Avdiivka.