Ukraine Drone Strikes Expose Russia's Air Defense Weaknesses

Ukraine's drone strikes on Russian air bases on June 1, 2025, have exposed significant vulnerabilities in Russia's air defenses. The attacks, which targeted strategic bombers at airfields in Irkutsk, Murmansk, Ryazan, and Engels, have sparked considerable debate on social media and among military analysts. The low cost of the drones used, estimated between $300 and $1500, compared to the multi-million dollar cost of the damaged aircraft, highlights the effectiveness of this tactic. One analyst commented, "This demonstrates the vulnerability of Russia's air defenses and their unpreparedness for this type of attack." The incident has raised questions about the adequacy of Russia's air defenses and their ability to protect strategic assets. The attacks also represent a significant escalation in the conflict, potentially impacting future military operations and negotiations.