A series of incidents have occurred in Rostov-on-Don, attracting the attention of military experts and analysts worldwide
At the popular "Rostov-on-Don Central" airfield, a modern Russian multi-role fighter aircraft – Su-30SM with serial number "35" – suddenly caught fire and was completely destroyed. This event has garnered broad media coverage and is seen as an indicator of serious internal problems and malfunctions within the Russian military system, which remains under constant threat of destruction amidst the ongoing war against Ukraine. According to the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, as reported in official statements, the destruction of this modern aircraft is considered an important sign of the degradation of Russian military infrastructure and combat capability. Preliminary estimates value the destroyed fighter at at least 50 million US dollars, highlighting the scale of losses and the efforts of the aggressor country to sustain a prolonged war, which carries significant financial burdens. The official press center of the Main Intelligence Directorate emphasizes that this event provides additional evidence of the increasing strength and resources mobilized by the Ukrainian people and their defense structures to resist Russian occupiers. The statement reads: "The scope of those 'forces' ready to oppose the Kremlin and conduct acts of demilitarization of the aggressor state is rapidly growing!" Officers also add that each destroyed Russian aircraft is not merely a material loss but a symbol of Ukraine’s determination to halt the aggression and bring perpetrators to justice for war crimes. This incident further confirms that Ukrainian defenders are actively inflicting losses on the Russian military not only on the battlefield but also through the destruction of its technical and materiel resources. The destruction of the modern Su-30SM fighter, one of the key elements of Russia’s aviation front line, signals an increase in the combat effectiveness of Ukrainian forces and their intensified efforts to eradicate Russian military presence on temporarily occupied territories. Moreover, this event is one among many series of destructions of Russian military equipment resulting from Ukrainian counterattacks and special operations, demonstrating the growing readiness and combat capability of the Ukrainian armed forces. Kyiv emphasizes that each destroyed fighter jet or armored vehicle is a contribution to victory, bringing closer the moment of liberating our territories and holding the perpetrators accountable for all crimes. Overall, the events in Rostov-on-Don once again underscore the serious and dynamic nature of the military situation in the region. Ukrainian defenders continue to act cohesively, demonstrating resistance and destroying the enemy not only on the battlefield but also through the destruction of its military equipment, laying the foundation for future victory and the return of independence to our country.