Ukrainian Defense Forces Strike Akhtubinsk Airbase, Damage Su-34 — Satellite Imagery

The Ukrainian Defense Forces struck the Russian military airbase at Akhtubinsk in Russia’s Astrakhan region, damaging a Su-34 fighter-bomber.

The strike took place in the early hours of August 20, between 12:30 and 1:00 a.m., near the town of Akhtubinsk, according to the Absolutely Reliable Source Telegram channel, which also published a satellite image of the site.

The images show at least two impact points on the airbase. The strike damaged a Su-34, with a fuel spill visible near the aircraft.

The Russians moved the remaining aircraft to other parts of the airfield or evacuated them to other bases after the strike.

According to the author of the Telegram channel, an analysis of the damaged aircraft’s camouflage suggests that it is an export version of the Su-34E.

Meanwhile, it is more likely to be either a flying laboratory based on the Su-34 or a primer coating applied to new aircraft before they are painted.

Flying laboratories are used to test new onboard systems, aircraft weapons, and electronic equipment under real-world flight conditions.