The Ukrainian Air Force expresses concern over potential intense assault
In Ukraine, the air force alerts of a possible significant Russian aerial assault. Six bombers of the Tupolev Tu-95 model, originating from Olenya's airbase in Murmansk, were reported to have taken off, as per the air force's Telegram update in the morning hours.
"Regarding the danger of missiles and the launch of cruise missiles, we'll deliver further details. Kindly don't disregard the air warning signal!", it stated.
A possible attack was anticipated for mid-afternoon, Kiev time (MEZ +1 hour). The official air warning app of Ukraine also sounded the alarm about the aircraft in the sky. The Ukrainians stay updated via these channels.
Drawing upon nearly two and a half years of the Russian hostile invasion, heavy airstrikes typically initiate with the departure of bombers from northern Russian or Volga airbases. Following several hours in flight, they often reach their launch sites, often over the Caspian Sea. The cruise missiles then fly between 40 minutes to an hour into Ukraine.
In conjunction attacks, drones might be in the air, or Russian MiG 31 fighter jets might launch the hypersonic missiles Kinzhal. These assaults typically occur at night. The Tu-95's daytime takeoff was considered unusual. Consequently, it couldn't be ruled out that the flight was for training or relocation purposes. The Russian military maintains silence on these flights.
The Russian origin of the bombers was confirmed, as they took off from Olenya's airbase in Murmansk. Despite the unusual daytime takeoff, there's speculation about potential Russian military exercises in the region.
