20 August 2026
The Ukrainian Defense Forces struck the Russian military airbase at Akhtubinsk in Russia’s Astrakhan region, damaging a Su-34 fighter-bomber.
The strike took place in the early hours of August 20, between 12:30 and 1:00 a.m., near the town of Akhtubinsk, according to the Absolutely Reliable Source Telegram channel, which also published a satellite image of the site.
The images show at least two impact points on the airbase. The strike damaged a Su-34, with a fuel spill visible near the aircraft.
The Russians moved the remaining aircraft to other parts of the airfield or evacuated them to other bases after the strike.
Damaged Su-34 at the Akhtubinsk airbase, August 20, 2026. Source: Absolutely Reliable Source
According to the author of the Telegram channel, an analysis of the damaged aircraft’s camouflage suggests that it is an export version of the Su-34E.
Meanwhile, it is more likely to be either a flying laboratory based on the Su-34 or a primer coating applied to new aircraft before they are painted.
Su-34-based flying laboratories (white). Photo credits: Google Maps
Su-34 treated with primer before painting. Photo credits: Andrey Chursin
Flying laboratories are used to test new onboard systems, aircraft weapons, and electronic equipment under real-world flight conditions.