In its December 8 intelligence update, the UK Defense Ministry highlights the Russian loss of the Su-24M fighter bomber to a Ukrainian surface-to-air missile over the north-western Black Sea, noting that air defenses continue to severely limit the effectiveness of tactical air operations for both sides. 

The ministry tweeted:

• On 5 December 2023, a Russian Naval Aviation Su-24M FENCER D fighter bomber was highly likely shot down by a Ukrainian surface-to-air Missile (SAM) over the north-western Black Sea in the vicinity of Ukraine’s Zmiinyi (Snake) Island. 
• Since summer 2023, Russia has continued to conduct high-risk, crewed strike missions against the island. This is likely mainly for messaging reasons because the island has become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance and Russia wants to demonstrate it can project force across the Black Sea.
• The two-man crew was likely lost: the location and operational conditions would make a successful Russian search and rescue mission extremely challenging. Both sides still suffer regular combat aircraft losses. Overall, air defences continue to severely limit the effectiveness of tactical air operations. 

Read also:

• General Staff: Ukrainian forces destroy Russian Su-24M ground attack aircraft
• Russian Su-24M aircraft downed near Bakhmut – Ukraine Air Force
• Ukraine downs Russian Su-24 near Bakhmut: Video
• Frontline report: Ukraine showcases power of ATACMS missiles against Russian airbases