Ukraine Claims Shooting Down Russian Su-34 Fighter, 2 An-26 Transports

Ukraine’s defense and intelligence services announced on September 25 that they destroyed multiple Russian aircraft, including a Su-34 fighter-bomber and two An-26 military transport planes.

According to the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), strike drones of its “Ghost” special unit hit two An-26 aircraft at the Kacha military airfield in occupied Crimea. Released video footage shows the drones striking both planes in succession, with the aircraft erupting in flames. Independent satellite observer Tom Bike confirmed the location as Kacha airfield.

The GUR also reported that its drones targeted a surface radar station and a coastal MR-10M1 “Mys M1” radar on the peninsula. The Ukrainian General Staff’s daily update for September 24 included confirmation of the Russian losses.

The Soviet-designed An-26 is used for cargo, troop transport, and medical evacuation. Ukraine recently claimed drone strikes on Russian Be-12 amphibious aircraft and a Mi-8AMTSh-VN helicopter in Crimea.

Separately, Ukraine’s Air Force announced today that its air defense units shot down a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber over Zaporizhia at about 4:00 a.m. The aircraft had reportedly carried out guided bomb strikes on the city. No details were disclosed regarding the weapon system used or the fate of the crew.

Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Su-34s have been a key platform for bomb and missile strikes against Ukrainian cities and front-line positions.