Satellite Images Confirm Ukraine Destroyed Two Rare Russian Aircraft in Strike on Taganrog Plant

A powerful Ukrainian strike on the TANTK Beriev aviation plant in Taganrog has wiped out two of Russia’s rarest and most valuable aircraft.

Fresh satellite images show the destruction of the experimental A-60 and the A-100LL - a critical flying testbed for Russia’s next-generation A-100 “Premier” AWACS program, The Caspian Post informs via Ukrainian media.

The A-100LL, based on the Il-76MD and long stationed at the Beriev facility, played a key role in testing radar and electronic systems intended to replace the aging Soviet-era A-50 fleet.

Analysts highlighted unique radar antenna mounts visible above the aircraft’s wings, confirming that the destroyed plane was indeed the A-100LL and not an IL-76, as initially speculated.

The strike also eliminated Russia’s experimental A-60 aircraft, another rare platform under long-term development at the plant. Reports suggest the attack may have additionally targeted a nearby oil refinery. Ukraine’s General Staff has confirmed conducting the operation.

According to early assessments, Ukrainian forces used a combination of Bars missiles and Neptune cruise missiles - showcasing Kyiv’s growing ability to hit high-value military assets deep inside Russian territory.