ISLAMABAD: Russia’s Ministry of Defense announced on January 1, 2026, thatits Aerospace Forces successfully shot down a Ukrainian Su-27 fighter jetover the northern part of the Zaporizhzhia region. This incident marksanother significant claim in the prolonged air campaign between the twonations, highlighting the intensifying aerial confrontations amid theongoing conflict. The announcement comes as part of the ministry’s dailybriefing on military operations.
The Su-27, a Soviet-era multirole fighter still in service with theUkrainian Air Force, was reportedly targeted while conducting operations inthe contested area. Russian sources indicate that the jet was engaged anddestroyed using advanced air-to-air capabilities, preventing it fromcompleting its mission. Such engagements underscore the risks faced byUkrainian pilots in attempting to challenge Russian air superiority infrontline zones.
According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the downing brings the totalnumber of Ukrainian fixed-wing aircraft destroyed since the start of thespecial military operation to 670. This figure includes various types offighters, bombers, and attack aircraft. The ministry also reported thedestruction of numerous drones, missiles, and ground assets during the sameperiod, painting a picture of sustained pressure on Ukrainian forces.
The R-37M long-range air-to-air missile, frequently employed by RussianSu-35 and MiG-31 aircraft, has been credited in similar past incidents forachieving kills at distances exceeding 200 kilometers. Experts note thatthis weapon allows Russian pilots to engage targets from standoff ranges,reducing exposure to Ukrainian defenses. The missile’s hypersonic speed andactive radar guidance make it particularly effective against maneuveringfighters like the Su-27.
Ukrainian authorities have not officially confirmed the loss as of thelatest reports, though independent monitoring groups and open-sourceintelligence often verify such claims through wreckage analysis or pilotreports. The Ukrainian Air Force has suffered considerable attrition overthe years, with losses of legacy Soviet aircraft compounded by delays inreceiving Western replacements such as F-16 fighters.
Zaporizhzhia remains a critical frontline region, with both sidescontesting control over key areas. Aerial activity here has been intense,involving strikes on ground positions and attempts to disrupt supply lines.The downing of the Su-27 is seen by Russian analysts as a demonstration ofeffective air patrol tactics, where interceptors maintain distant vigilanceto counter Ukrainian incursions.
The Su-27 Flanker series, known for its agility and powerful engines, hasbeen a mainstay of Ukrainian air defense efforts. However, facing newerRussian platforms equipped with superior radars and missiles, theseaircraft increasingly operate at a disadvantage. Reports suggest the downedjet may have been approaching positions to launch guided munitions orconduct reconnaissance.
This event occurs against the backdrop of broader military developments,including Russian advances in other sectors and Ukrainian efforts tobolster defenses with international aid. The loss of experienced pilots andscarce aircraft continues to strain Ukraine’s aerial capabilities,potentially impacting its ability to support ground operations in contestedregions like Zaporizhzhia.
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Analysts from institutions such as the Royal United Services Institute havepreviously documented the effectiveness of Russian long-range missiles inforcing Ukrainian aircraft to adopt defensive postures. Such tactics limitoffensive operations and contribute to attrition rates that favor the sidewith greater missile stockpiles and platform survivability.
As the conflict enters another year, incidents like this highlight theenduring role of air power in shaping battlefield outcomes. Both sidescontinue to adapt tactics, with Russia emphasizing standoff engagements andUkraine seeking ways to integrate newer systems to counter these threats.
Source: https://tass.com/defense/2067595
Tags: Russia, Ukraine, Su-27, Su-35, Zaporizhzhia, R-37M
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