Ukraine’s military intelligence confirmed the destruction of a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber at Shagol airbase near Chelyabinsk, Russia.

According to a statement from the Chief Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, the incident occurred overnight on 4 January 2024.

The destroyed plane belonged to the 21st Mixed Aviation Division of the Russian Air Force. Ukraine’s intelligence didn’t provide further details on the circumstances surrounding the fighter jet catching fire, only stating that “the causes of the ignition of the aircraft are being clarified.”

Last time, a Ukrainian anti-air unit shot down another Russian Su-34 fighter bomber late on Christmas Eve, 24 December.

Earlier, Russia lost three Su-34 bomber aircraft in one combat engagement, after which its glide bomb attacks on Kherson Oblast decreased significantly.

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