The Tu-22M3 strategic missile carrier has suffered damage as a result of the attack on the Diaghilev strategic aviation base of the Russian Aerospace Forces.

Photos of the warplane were published online.

It was the bomber with tail number RF-34110 (“02” red) that was affected by the explosion.

The impact damaged the rear edge of the stabilizer. Engine afterburners were also disabled.

Ту-22М3 was armed with a Kh-22 cruise missile and was probably preparing to participate in the strike of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Ту-22М3 is a long-range supersonic missile carrier bomber, surrendered to carry nuclear weapons. It is a component of the Russian nuclear triad. Russia used them repeatedly in the war with Ukraine, in particular to bomb Azovstal in Mariupol, as well as to launch a missile that destroyed the Amstor shopping center in Kremenchuk.

Near the aircraft there is also a damaged aerodrome mobile unit, probably APA-80. Traces of blood are visible under the vehicle.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation published censored generalized data on losses as a result of attacks on the Diaghilevo and Engels ABs. The Russians claim “minor damage to the hull skin of two aircraft.” The Russian Federation also announced the death of three military personnel from ground personnel and the injury of four more. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation assures that the damage was caused by “Ukrainian UAVs” after they were shot down by air defense systems.

Russian journalists, acting as propagandists of the military structures of the aggressor country, report that strategic aviation based airfields were hit with the help of the Soviet Tu-141 Strizh UAV.

This aircraft is able to reach speeds of more than 1,000 km/h and operate within a radius of up to 1,000 km. The weight of the vehicle is more than 5,300 kg.

A satellite image taken after the explosion at the Diaghilevo base was released on the web.

It should be reminded that on December 5, 2022, it became known about explosions at Engels and Diaghilevo bases. According to Russian media, two aircraft were damaged on the Engels AB. However, no photo confirmation appeared on the web at the moment.