A significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia occurred when a Ukrainian missile targeted a key Russian airbase, located 400 miles behind the front lines.

The strike, which took place yesterday, marks one of the longest-range missile attacks of the war so far.

Massive Explosion and Fireball at Russian Airbase

The missile, believed to be a Neptune cruise missile, created a massive fireball and triggered several powerful explosions, causing Russian heavy ordnance to explode.

The destructive force of the blast was so intense that it reportedly tore off roofs from nearby civilian homes around the Engels-2 airbase, located in the Saratov Oblast of Russia.

Visible Aftermath and Uncertainty Around Damages

A thick, dark cloud of smoke could be seen rising from the airbase for hours after the explosion, lingering over the area and remaining visible from a distance of 20 miles.

While it’s still uncertain whether the Russian Tu-95MS and Tu-160 strategic bombers stationed at the airbase were directly destroyed, the missile strike did succeed in wiping out the bombs carried by these aircraft.

Ukraine’s Strategic Success with Neptune Missiles

This attack is considered a major victory for Ukraine, as it successfully utilized its upgraded Neptune missile system to hit a high-priority target deep within enemy territory.

The missile appears to have evaded Russian air defenses, likely aided by a well-executed radar jamming operation, which helped ensure the missile’s success in reaching its target.