Ukraine’s AI-Powered Drones Strike Russian Bombers in Bold Long-Range Operation

In a major leap for modern warfare, Ukraine has revealed details of a daring drone strike operation targeting Russia’s strategic bombers deep inside its territory. This mission, led by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), showcased not only advanced unmanned technology but also the clever use of artificial intelligence to outsmart Russian defenses.

The operation, which took over 18 months to plan, used drones developed entirely within Ukraine. These were no ordinary drones — they were equipped with AI systems capable of identifying Russian airbases, spotting vulnerable points on the aircraft, and launching attacks without human intervention once airborne.

The main targets were Russia’s prized Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 bombers, both of which play a key role in carrying out long-range missile strikes against Ukrainian cities. These bombers often carry Kh-101 cruise missiles under their wings, making them a high-priority threat for Ukraine’s defense forces.

What made this operation remarkable was the precision with which the drones struck. The AI-guided systems focused their attacks on two crucial areas: the underwing pylons of the Tu-95MS — where the Kh-101 missiles are mounted — and the nearby fuel tanks. Damaging these parts meant disabling the bombers’ ability to carry out future attacks while also risking fuel fires on the ground.

To carry out the operation, SBU operatives secretly transported 150 small strike drones and 300 munitions into Russian territory. Out of these, 116 drones were launched directly from concealed positions. The drones were hidden inside special modular wooden cabins mounted on trucks. These cabins had roof panels that opened remotely, allowing the drones to fly toward their pre-selected targets without exposing the launch crew to danger.

Another clever tactic involved using Russian telecommunications networks for controlling the drones. The AI system onboard each drone could correct its course mid-flight, using the local networks without relying on external support, making detection and interception by Russian forces even harder.

Photographs released by the SBU also showed agency chief Vasyl Maliuk studying detailed images of the targeted bombers. These images marked structural weak points on the aircraft, including missile mounting points, engine housings, and fuel systems. These weak points were fed into the AI targeting programs, enabling the drones to strike with accuracy.

What makes this operation even more significant is that it was entirely Ukrainian in execution. No Western-made parts or systems were involved. All components were either made in Ukraine or procured from Chinese suppliers, demonstrating Ukraine’s growing capability to independently develop advanced, combat-ready technology.

This daring mission, which reportedly damaged or disabled 41 Russian aircraft, stands as one of Ukraine’s most ambitious and complex military operations to date. It also highlights how warfare is rapidly evolving, with AI-powered drones now capable of operating deep inside enemy territory with minimal human oversight.

As the conflict continues, this operation signals a new phase in drone warfare — one where artificial intelligence, precision strikes, and homegrown innovation play a decisive role on the modern battlefield.