Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter jet hit for first time

Ukraine has reported its first successful strike on a prized Russian Su-57 fighter jet stationed deep inside Russian territory. According to Ukraine’s main intelligence directorate, the attack occurred at the Akhtubinsk airfield in the Astrakhan region, which is 360 miles from the front line. Satellite imagery provided by Ukraine’s military intelligence indicates the aircraft was intact on June 7 but showed damage on June 8.

The Su-57 is considered Moscow’s most advanced fighter jet, capable of launching Kh-59 and Kh-69 missiles. A pro-Kremlin Telegram channel, Fighterbomber, which often confirms Russian military losses in the absence of official statements, reported that the Su-57 had sustained shrapnel damage, although it is currently unclear whether the aircraft can be restored.

This strike marks a significant milestone, as it is the first reported instance of a Su-57 being damaged since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Unlike the more commonly used Su-25 and Su-35 aircraft, the Su-57 has not been widely deployed in the conflict.

Additionally, just a day before the news of the Su-57 damage was reported, a video surfaced showing a Ukrainian long-range attack drone targeting Mozdok air base in Russia’s North Ossetia region, approximately 450 miles from the front line. This further underscores Ukraine’s expanding capabilities to strike targets deep within Russian territory  .