UK intelligence explains why Russia regularly targets Zmiinyi Island
UK Defence Intelligence has analysed the downing of a Russian Su-24M bomber near Zmiinyi (Snake) Island by Ukrainian Air Force anti-aircraft gunners as it attempted to launch a missile-and-bomb attack on the south of Odesa Oblast.
Source: UK Defence Intelligence review dated 8 December on Twitter, as reported by European Pravda
Details: The UK MoD reports that Russia has been launching risky aircraft missions near the island since the summer of 2023, likely because the site has become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance and Russia seeks to show its power across the Black Sea.
UK intelligence indicates that the two-person crew of the Su-24M bomber that Ukraine shot down is likely dead and that the location and operational conditions extremely complicate the Russian search and rescue mission.
"Both sides still suffer regular combat aircraft losses. Overall, air defences continue to severely limit the effectiveness of tactical air operations," the UK MoD stated.
Background:
- On the evening of 5 December, Ukrainian Air Force anti-aircraft gunners destroyed a Russian Su-24M bomber near Zmiinyi Island, which had attempted to launch a missile-and-bomb attack on the south of Odesa Oblast.
- On 7 December, UK intelligence analysed the recruitment of new officers to the Russian General Staff Academy and its future impact on the Russian army.
- On 6 December, the UK MoD reported that Russia is trying to improve Iranian-made Shahed attack drones used to attack targets in Ukraine.
- On 5 December, UK Defence Intelligence reported on the progress of the battle for the town of Marinka (Donetsk Oblast).
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