Aviation expert: Numerous strategic targets within the Russian Federation are accessible to our UAVs

On April 2nd, Ukrainian drones targeted a factory in Yelabuga where Russians were assembling Shahed drones, marking the furthest location our defense forces have successfully struck from Ukraine’s borders to date.

Anatoliy Khrapchynskyi, an aviation expert and deputy director general of a company producing electronic warfare equipment, shared insights with Hromadske Radio.

«The capability of our drones to operate at such distances is significant, as it implies that numerous strategic targets within the Russian Federation are within our reach. Regarding the strike itself, the targeted facility was indeed involved in assembling Shahed-type kamikaze drones, with a considerable presence of engineers from Russia tasked with modernization efforts under the guise of ‘defense’. This strike also serves as psychological pressure on society, highlighting that no place is entirely secure, and casualties can occur even during drone assembly», — Khrapchynskyi explained.

The Yelabuga plant is situated over 1,200 kilometers from the Ukrainian-Russian border, yet numerous other strategic facilities lie closer to Ukraine in Russian regions.

«We possess drones capable of flying 2,500 kilometers and enduring 30 hours in the air. Regarding distance, it’s crucial to note that the mentioned figure represents a straight line. Drones must navigate air defenses, electronic warfare systems, and urban areas. Hence, advancements in detection of air defense systems and route alterations are essential for extending operational ranges», — the aviation expert emphasized.

He highlighted the significance of this longest-range attack, noting that en route to Yelabuga, they bypassed the Kazan aircraft repair plant—a critical Russian facility where the Tu-160, Putin’s favored strategic bomber, undergoes maintenance and painting. This demonstrates the vulnerability of strategically important targets to our UAVs.

Predicting the impact of the strike on future drone operations is challenging, Khrapchynskyi remarked. While assembling drones in Yelabuga didn’t require sophisticated equipment, relocating such facilities entails logistical complexities and heightened security measures. Additionally, fuel shortages resulting from attacks on oil refineries add another layer of challenge. Despite potential obstacles, drone attacks are expected to continue in the coming days due to existing stockpiles in launch zones. The extent of the damage inflicted and its implications remain uncertain.