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Russia Struggles to Restore Nuclear-Capable Bomber Fleet After Ukrainian Drone Attacks

Western analysts warn that sanctions alongside ageing airframe designs could prolong Russia’s bomber shortages for years.

Russian President Vladimir Putin looks at a model of the Tupolev TU-160 bomber, or Blackjack, that was presented to him on his arrival in Olenegorsk, Russia, August 16, 2005. (CREDIT : REUTERS/ITAR-TASS/PRESIDENTIAL PRESS SERVICE)/File Photo
A satellite image shows a group of TU 95 aircrafts before a drone strike, in Belaya airbase, Irkutsk region, Russia, May 22, 2025, Maxar Technologies/Handout via REUTERS/File Photo
A Russian Tu-160 and Tu-22M3 aircraft fly over Red Square during the Victory Day Parade in Moscow, Russia, June 24, 2020. The military parade, marking the 75th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, was scheduled for May 9 but postponed due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Pavel Golovkin/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
A satellite image shows a destroyed TU 22 aircraft in the aftermath of a drone strike at the Belaya air base, Irkutsk region, Russia, June 4, 2025, Maxar Technologies/Handout via REUTERS/File Photo

Overview

  • Western experts say Russia will need years to replace Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 bombers damaged in Ukraine’s 'Spider’s Web' drone operation.
  • Satellite imagery reveals extensive destruction at Siberian and Far North airfields, with several nuclear-capable aircraft burned out.
  • U.S. officials estimate up to 20 warplanes were struck and about 10 destroyed, despite Moscow’s denial of any losses.
  • Russian military bloggers report serious damage to roughly a dozen bombers and accuse commanders of negligence.
  • Stalled PAK DA bomber development and sanctions-induced component shortages hinder any rapid rebuilding of Russia’s long-range aviation fleet.