BBC News Russian speculates that the aircraft may have exhausted their service life, while the Ukrainian Air Force spokesman suggests Russia is stockpiling Kinzhal missiles for future strikes.
Russian milbloggers report a mysterious aircraft downing, speculating Ukrainian F-16 involvement—potentially the second such incident since 12 October.
The latest incident reportedly occurred on 10 October, when Russian aircraft dropped a FAB-500 bomb near Neklyudovo village in Russia's Belgorod Oblast.
The loss of Russia's S-70 heavy drone exposed significant technical limitations, operational challenges, and discrepancies between Russian claims and the UAV's actual capabilities.
Ukrainian HUR soldiers successfully destroyed a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet over the Black Sea using MANPADS on 11 September. The aircraft was based in Saky, occupied Crimea.
Russia's Tu-22M3 strategic bomber fleet is diminishing due to production cessation since 1993, recent losses in Ukraine, accidents, and modernization difficulties.
Russian-occupied Crimea has five military airfields, but two are reportedly without aircraft. Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Pletenchuk states Russian occupiers may have relocated planes to Russia due to logistical challenges in fuel and supply provision.