UK intelligence assesses significance of losing A-50 aircraft to Russia
UK intelligence is "almost convinced" that Russian A-50 long-range radar detection aircraft is at the bottom of the Azov Sea, which will force the Russian command to limit the area of operation of other military aircrafts.
Source: UK Ministry of Defence's review on 17 January
Details: UK intelligence noted that Russian A-50 long-range detection and control aircraft "almost certainly" exploded and crashed in the western waters of the Sea of Azov on 14 January, while a damaged Il-22M reportedly managed to land at a Russian airport.
Quote: "The possible successful targeting of an A-50 MAINSTAY by Ukraine is significant. It is likely that Russia will now be forced to reconsider limiting the operational areas of its aircraft. The A-50 is critical to the Russian air surveillance picture over the battlespace."
More details:
UK intelligence stated that Russia has only eight operational A-50s, and this is likely to cover its operational needs for the near future. However, in the long term, the loss of this aircraft could have an impact, as fewer of these aircraft means more work for the remaining ones and their crews.
Background:
- Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, announced that the downing of the two aircraft was the result of an operation by the Ukrainian Air Force.
- Colonel Yurii Ihnat, spokesman for Ukraine's Air Force, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda has explained that the loss of one A-50 long-range radar detection aircraft cannot fundamentally impact the balance of forces using aviation on the front. However, it is undoubtedly a significant loss and will likely compel Russia to exercise more caution in the skies.
- In a previous review, UK intelligence said that Russia's successes in Avdiivka were limited and came at a high price.
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