**Ukraine's 'Spider Web' Operation: A Bold Drone Assault on Russian Bombers**

On June 1, a meticulously planned operation involving over 100 drones targeted Russian air bases, emphasizing Ukraine's tactical capabilities.

On June 1, Ukraine launched an unprecedented drone operation, known as "Spider Web," targeting Russian airbases strategically positioned across the country. This elaborate assault involved over 100 drones and has been described as 18 months in the making. The attacks hit several regions in Russia, from Murmansk in the far north to the Amur region in the east, which is about 8,000 kilometers from Ukraine.

The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed that air bases were attacked in five regions: Murmansk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Ryazan, and Amur, with damage reported primarily in Murmansk and Irkutsk. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who oversaw the operation, shared that the meticulous planning took "one year, six months, and nine days" and emphasized the precision of the operation.

Head of Ukraine's Security Service (SBU), Vasyl Maliuk, revealed that the drones were cleverly disguised and transported within wooden cabins on trucks, with drivers who were unaware of the cargo’s true nature. Reports suggest drivers were merely instructed to park their vehicles, only to be surprised when drones were launched from them. Videos showed drones taking off from these concealed trucks, highlighting the ingenuity of the mission.

Ukrainian authorities claimed significant losses for the Russian military, stating that 41 strategic bombers were struck, with "at least" 13 reported destroyed. Russian officials, however, admitted to limited damage without confirming the extent of the aircraft losses. Footage verified by the BBC corroborated claims of damage at key military bases.

Drone technology and innovation have advanced significantly in Ukraine during the conflict, and experts noted the drones used in this operation, likely local productions, effectively bypassed Russian defenses. Each of the 117 drones was said to have its own pilot and was able to be guided remotely.

The operation, which may have caused $7 billion in damages to Russian forces, went largely unreported in Russian media following the attacks, while social media buzzed with praise from Ukrainians celebrating their military success.

Zelensky’s remarks post-operation suggested a combination of tactical triumph and message-sending, indicating a shift in the narrative of the conflict. He emphasized the legitimacy of the targets while hinting at further undisclosed actions, asserting that Ukraine's ingenuity would be noted in historical accounts of the war.