The loss of an A-50 detection and command aircraft, which the Ukrainian military said on Monday had been destroyed over the Sea of Azov a day earlier, may lead Russian forces to review the way they use such equipment, the British Ministry of Defense’s intelligence services estimated. .
“On January 14, 2024, a Russian A-50 mainstay aircraft, an airborne detection and control aircraft, almost certainly exploded and subsequently crashed into the western Sea of Azov. Meanwhile, a Russian Il-22M Coot-B plane was damaged but landed at a nearby Russian airfield.They remember in their Daily update On conflict.
“The fact that Ukraine succeeded in targeting the A-50 mainstay is significant. It is likely that Russia will now be forced to reconsider the delimitation of its aircraft’s operational zone. The A-50 is essential for Russian aerial surveillance of the battlefield. The Russian Air Force has a fleet of A-50s. There are eight examples, which should allow it to deal with immediate operational consequences. However, the increased pressure on the remaining aircraft, along with the loss of crew, will limit mission viability in the long term.Add intelligence services.
