Ukraine's 'Operation Spider Web' Inflicts Estimated $7 Billion Damage on Russian Air Assets

On June 1, 2025, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) executed "Operation Spider Web," a large-scale drone attack targeting five Russian airbases deep within Russian territory, including locations in Murmansk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Ryazan, and Amur regions. The sophisticated operation, reportedly overseen by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aimed to inflict significant damage on Russia's strategic aviation capabilities. Ukrainian officials estimate the operation resulted in the destruction or damage of 41 aircraft, causing an estimated $7 billion in losses to Russia.

The attack involved 117 drones, which were clandestinely smuggled into Russia over an 18-month preparation period. The drones were concealed within wooden cabins loaded onto trucks, which were then driven by unwitting civilian drivers to launch locations near the airbases. Upon arrival, the drones were launched remotely, striking targets such as Tu-95, Tu-22M3, and Tu-160 strategic bombers, as well as A-50 airborne early warning and control aircraft.

Russia's Ministry of Defense confirmed the attacks, acknowledging damage to aircraft at the Olenya and Belaya airbases, though claiming many attacks were repelled. The operation sparked varied reactions, with one social media user, Teortaxes▶️, dismissively stating, > "Operation 'Spider Web' depended on subhuman lumpenprole. Pretty whitepilling in this case, you need bottom of the barrel, barely conscious human capital to participate in something like that." This perspective contrasts sharply with the intricate planning and high-level oversight described by Ukrainian sources, suggesting a deliberate use of unsuspecting individuals as part of a complex deception.

Military analysts view "Operation Spider Web" as a significant strategic blow, demonstrating Ukraine's ability to strike deep inside Russia and disrupt its long-range aviation capabilities. The targeted aircraft types are crucial for Russia's missile attacks on Ukraine and are difficult to replace, potentially forcing Russia to disperse its strategic bomber fleet. The operation has been lauded by some as a "masterclass in modern warfare," highlighting the effectiveness of asymmetric tactics and technological innovation in the ongoing conflict.