Russian Su-57 and Su-34 Aircraft Struck at Airfield in Chelyabinsk Region

1 May 2026

The Russian modernized Su-57 fighter jet, serial number 511. October 2022. Russia. Photo credits: PJSC Sukhoi Company

Ukrainian drones struck Russian Su-57 and Su-34 aircraft at the Shagol airfield in the Chelyabinsk region.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that the results of the strikes have been confirmed. The operation was carried out on April 25 by the Unmanned Systems Forces.

“Several Su-57 fighters and a Su-34 fighter-bomber were struck. The extent of the damage is being determined,” the General Staff noted.

The targets were located approximately 1,700 km from Ukraine’s state border.

Two Su-57s and one Su-34 at the Shagol airfield. Source: Exilenova+

Two Su-57s and one Su-34 at the Shagol airfield. Source: Exilenova+

Analysts from the Exilenova+ group released a satellite image of the Shagol airfield dated April 26. The image visually confirms the strike site of the Su-57 and Su-34 aircraft, from which the aircraft were subsequently removed.

On April 25, it was reported that Ukrainian strike drones attacked Chelyabinsk in the Central Urals for the first time.

Comparison of satellite images of the Shagol airfield from April 17 and 26, 2026. In one of the images, Russians are clearing up the aftermath of strikes. Source: Exilenova+

Comparison of satellite images of the Shagol airfield from April 17 and 26, 2026. In one of the images, Russians are clearing up the aftermath of strikes. Source: Exilenova+

This is not the first strike against Russia’s newest Su-57 fighter jets. In 2024, Russia acknowledged that Ukrainian drones had struck two Su-57s at the Akhtubinsk air base in the Astrakhan region.

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