This premium article is exclusive to SOFREP+ Subscribers - Thank you for your support.
Model of anti-ship missile 3M-54E1 at MAKS-2009 (Source: Allocer/Wikimedia Commons)
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense reported Monday that a drone strike had demolished Russian Kalibr cruise missiles being shipped by train in Dzhankoi, located in Russian-held Crimea.
The Ukrainian government did not formally claim responsibility for the attack but stated it was part of the effort to “demilitarize Russia and prepare the Crimean peninsula for de-occupation.”
According to Sergei Askyonov, the leader of the annexed territory, a drone strike had occurred, and their air defense systems were activated. He also reported that one individual was injured, and two structures were damaged.
“All the drones targeted civilian sites. For example, one was hit over the Dzhankoi technical school and came down between the instruction area and a student residence,” said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Russia-installed head of Crimea.
“There are no military sites nearby. The others were downed in residential areas. In addition to explosives, each one carried shrapnel.”
The Ukrainian Air Defense has significantly influenced the country’s fight against Russian aggression. In recent months, Ukraine has seen increased air defense capabilities, including long-range missile systems. This has enabled them better to protect their people from Russian cruise missiles such as Kalibr.
The Ukrainian Air Force is one of the five branches of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and is responsible for protecting its airspace. The Air Force has recently received upgrades to its air defense systems, including the S-300 missile system, which recently shot down a Russian Su-34 fighter. Additionally, NATO allies have provided Ukraine with MiG-29 fighter jets capable of engaging enemy aircraft at close range.
The effectiveness of these air defense systems has been demonstrated over the past few months as they have successfully repelled numerous Russian attacks on Ukrainian soil. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, their air defenses are more vital than ever and have denied Russia air superiority in most of the nation.
Furthermore, a former top US Air Force F-16 pilot Dan Hampton says he would fly for Ukraine vs. Russia if given a chance, demonstrating the confidence that Ukrainians have in their air defense capabilities and the aggressiveness of US fighter pilots when faced with a challenge.
Dan Hampton, retired US Air Force pilot, says he's ready to go to Ukraine to fly F16 planes and talks about strategic importance of aviation on the battlefield.
“No one has ever won a war from the air,” Hampton told Voice of America (VOA). In his opinion, “You can’t win a war from the air, but you can lose a war if you don’t control the airspace.”
Dzhankoi Becomes a Key City
Britain’s Ministry of Defense reported in 2022 that two of Russia’s most critical military airbases are in Dzhankoi and Gvardeyskoye, both located in Crimea.
“Dzhankoi is also a key road and rail junction that plays an important role in supplying Russia’s operations in southern Ukraine,” it said.
The city of Dzhankoi, located in the northern part of Crimea, is crucial for Ukraine’s efforts to reclaim the region. In the recent explosion that destroyed Russian cruise missiles, many consider this a big win for the Ukrainians.
In addition to modern combat technology, Ukraine should now focus on strengthening its diplomatic ties with other countries to gain support for its cause. By working together with other nations, Ukraine can build international pressure on Russia and potentially increase its chances of success in reclaiming Crimea.
Overall, the recent strikes in Dzhankoi may be a crucial turning point for Ukraine’s efforts to reclaim Crimea. Ukraine has a better chance of success by utilizing modern warfare technology and strengthening diplomatic ties with other countries. With the right strategy and resources, Ukraine can regain control over Crimea and restore peace and stability in the region.
Meanwhile, the Crimean port of Sevastopol is still home to a significant Russian naval base, with some of the country’s most powerful warships. Moreover, these ships are outfitted with cruise missiles, making them a formidable force.
The Call for Crimea
In February 2022, Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which led to multiple attacks by Ukraine against Russian military targets in Crimea. Moreover, Ukrainian military operations have been reported to have obliterated Russian Kalibr cruise missiles throughout the course of the war, according to the Ukrainian government.
President Volodymyr Zelensky and other Ukrainian representatives promised to reclaim Crimea, annexed by Russia, in 2014, saying
Crimea is “not just some territory” but “a part of our people, our society.”
Russia responded with a series of cyberattacks. The Kremlin also used the Black Sea Fleet at the Crimean port of Sebastopol to threaten Ukrainian vessels trying to enter waters around Crimea.
They also accused Ukraine of carrying out a “provocation,” saying Ukrainian forces had violated the Russian border by firing at positions in Crimea. In response, Moscow deployed additional troops, tanks, and equipment to the region.
The international community has largely condemned Russia’s actions in Crimea, though most have little appetite for military confrontation. Instead, many countries have imposed economic sanctions to pressure Russia into withdrawing its forces. In addition, the United Nations Security Council has held numerous meetings to discuss the crisis and passed a resolution condemning Russia’s military activities in Ukraine.
Despite these efforts, Russia has yet to withdraw its forces from Crimea or recognize Ukraine’s sovereignty over the region.
It may take some time and effort to change their minds.
Experience news and stories of our veteran journalists with a SOFREP.com subscription! Sign up now and get exclusive access to unique and honest perspectives.
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
Praesidus brings homage to the military watch tradition. With robust designs and vintage classic style, discover the heritage of military timepieces today!
COMMENTS
There are on this article.
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.