Overview
- The FSB published audio it says captures a Ukrainian military intelligence operative instructing a Russian pilot on how to seize the interceptor, including altitude and speed guidance.
- Operational footage aired by state channels shows stacks of U.S. dollars, with a purported $3 million offer to induce the pilot to deliver the aircraft armed with a Kinzhal missile.
- The service attributed the operation to Ukraine’s GUR and alleged involvement of British handlers.
- According to the FSB, the plan envisioned directing the aircraft toward the area of NATO’s base in Constanta, Romania, where air defenses could shoot it down.
- Russian authorities said retaliatory Kinzhal strikes hit the GUR’s main electronic reconnaissance center and the Starokostiantyniv airfield in response.