What was the name of Ukraine's covert drone strike in June 2025 that hit five Russian air bases?

The covert drone (Deals) strike launched by Ukraine in June 2025, which targeted five Russian air bases, was indeed known as Operation Spiderweb. This audacious operation, carried out by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) on June 1, 2025, represented a significant escalation in drone warfare and demonstrated Ukraine's innovative capabilities. The coordinated strikes hit strategic Russian air force assets at the Belaya, Dyagilevo, Ivanovo Severny, Olenya, and Ukrainka air bases, extending the reach of Ukrainian attacks thousands of kilometers into Russian territory.

Operation Spiderweb was notable for its sophisticated execution. Ukrainian agents reportedly smuggled drones, some of which were AI-enhanced First-Person-View (FPV) drones, into Russian territory concealed within trucks. These drones were then launched from within Russia, overwhelming defenses and striking high-value targets. Reports from Ukrainian officials indicated that as many as 41 military aircraft were damaged or destroyed, including nuclear-capable Tu-95 and Tu-22 strategic bombers, as well as A-50 surveillance planes. This substantial blow was estimated to have reduced Russia's strategic air capacity by a significant margin and forced Russia to relocate its remaining strategic bomber fleet further east, complicating their long-range strike missions.

The success of Operation Spiderweb highlighted the evolving nature of modern conflict, where relatively inexpensive drones can be leveraged to inflict considerable damage on a technologically advanced adversary. The operation, which was reportedly planned over 18 months, showcased Ukraine's ability to conduct deep penetration attacks and adapt new technologies to the battlefield, marking a critical moment in the ongoing conflict. It not only caused physical damage to Russian military assets but also had a significant psychological impact, shattering the perception of Russia's strategic depth and forcing a re-evaluation of its air defense strategies.