A dramatic overnight attack in southern Russia has reportedly destroyed one of the country’s most secretive military aircraft. Ukrainian media and several online channels claimed that an experimental plane known as a “flying laboratory” was hit during a series of drone strikes.
A Rare Aircraft Hit in Overnight Attacks
The aircraft, identified as an A-60, was parked at an airfield in the port city of Taganrog. This city is located around 200 kilometers from the front lines of the ongoing conflict. The A-60 is known for being part of a special program that tests laser technology. These lasers are believed to be designed to damage or disable aircraft, incoming missiles, and even satellites.
Images posted online showed the aircraft engulfed in flames. While the pictures could not be independently confirmed, several war bloggers stated that the plane appeared to be heavily damaged and possibly destroyed. The damage came during a night of widespread attacks that targeted Russian military sites in the regions of Krasnodar and Rostov.
The overnight strikes were part of a long-running effort by Ukraine to weaken Russian military capabilities far from the battlefield. These attacks often focus on fuel depots, airbases, and other infrastructure used to support operations.
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Why the A-60 Aircraft Matters
The A-60 is not a normal military aircraft. It was developed as a testing ground for advanced laser systems, making it one of Russia’s rarest and most unusual planes. Because of its experimental role, it carries special equipment and is sometimes described as a “flying laboratory.”
The aircraft is believed to have been stationed at a facility operated by one of Russia’s major aviation manufacturers. This company is known for producing amphibious aircraft and special-purpose machines used for surveillance, transport, and military support. It also repairs and modernizes several types of aircraft, including bombers and spy planes used across the Russian military.
The reported destruction of an A-60 is significant because very few of these aircraft exist. They have been part of research programs for many years, working on technologies that are not widely understood. These planes are believed to be used for experiments related to targeting systems in the sky. That means they play a role in testing ideas that could affect future weapons.
The loss of such a rare aircraft, if confirmed, would be a major blow to research programs that rely on it. It would also show that Ukraine’s drone strikes are reaching deeper into areas far from the front lines, hitting equipment Russia spends years developing.
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Widespread Drone Strikes Across Two Regions
The attacks that reportedly destroyed the A-60 were part of a larger wave of drone strikes across Krasnodar and Rostov. Russian authorities stated that they faced one of the most intense overnight bombardments so far. According to official statements, more than 200 drones were intercepted or shot down in the two regions.
Local officials reported damage in several areas. In Rostov, three people were confirmed dead following the strikes. Fires and explosions were reported near multiple sites, including industrial zones and military facilities. Emergency crews were sent to contain the damage and respond to fires caused by falling debris.
In Krasnodar, regional leaders described the attack as one of the most sustained and powerful strikes carried out by Ukraine. Residents reported hearing loud blasts throughout the night. Videos circulating online showed fireballs rising into the sky and emergency vehicles racing toward impact sites.
Drone attacks in these regions have increased in recent months. Ukraine has repeatedly targeted areas connected to Russia’s logistics and military operations. This includes ports, warehouses, oil facilities, and airfields. The goal of these strikes has been to limit Russia’s ability to supply and support its forces near the front.
The strike on Taganrog, where the A-60 was located, appeared to be one of the most high-profile hits of the night. The aircraft was parked at a major aviation plant known for handling special-purpose aircraft systems. This plant also services strategic bombers and spy planes, making it a central hub for several important military projects.
Russia’s Ministry of Defence acknowledged the drone attacks but did not comment on the claims about the A-60 aircraft. The ministry’s statement focused on the number of drones intercepted and the spread of the strikes across the two border regions.
Local reports indicated that debris from intercepted drones caused fires in some neighborhoods. Emergency services worked through the early morning to secure damaged areas and assist residents affected by the blasts. Several roads were temporarily closed while cleanup efforts continued.
