Ukraine Deals Major Blow to Russia, Destroys S-400 Air Defense System with Drone Strike

In a significant military achievement, Ukraine has destroyed two of Russia’s S-400 air defense system launchers in Belgorod, marking a major setback for Moscow. The operation was carried out near the village of Verkhnye Olshanets, approximately 50 kilometers from the border, using precision drones, according to open-source intelligence (OSINT) analysts on social media platform X.

The Ukrainian General Staff released a video of the operation, confirming the strike took place on December 14, targeting the operational area of Russia’s 568th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment. This action is part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to weaken Russia’s air defense capabilities.

The strike was executed by drone operators from Ukraine’s 15th Separate Artillery Reconnaissance Brigade, known as ‘Black Forest.’ Both S-400 launchers, along with their ammunition, were destroyed in the attack. Video footage shows Russian anti-aircraft units moving along a rough road, likely repositioning, when the sudden drone strike caused massive explosions, leaving them with no time to respond.

The OSINT analysis confirmed that the drones struck the convoy at approximately 16:30 hours, destroying one 5P85SM2-01 launcher completely and severely damaging another. The explosions also destroyed four 48N6DM anti-aircraft guided missiles stored in transport and launch containers.

The S-400 Triumph system, considered the backbone of Russia’s air defense, is an advanced variant of the Soviet-era S-300 system. With superior radar capabilities, extended range, and multi-target engagement features, the loss of these launchers represents a major blow to Russia’s layered air defense network. Defense experts note that Ukraine’s consistent targeting of Russian air defense assets is a calculated strategy to pave the way for future missile and drone operations inside Russian territory.