Oleh Zhdanov: Russia Only Has Two Working A-50U Aimer Jets Left

• 27.02.2023, 18:30

For further reconnaissance, they will have to be relocated to the territory of Belarus.

Damage to the A-50U aimer jet of the Russian Aerospace Forces in Machulishchy significantly complicates radar reconnaissance. In addition, there are only a few such aircraft in Russia. Military expert Oleh Zhdanov said this in a comment to UNN.

“This is a long-range radar reconnaissance aircraft, 600 km. It was this aircraft that determined the positions of our air defense systems during its combat work, this is its main purpose. They lifted the MiG-31 into the air from the Belarusian airfields, we were forced to declare an alarm throughout Ukraine, and at that time the aircraft determined the positions of our air defense systems,” said Zhdanov.

Disabling even one such aircraft makes it difficult for Russia to carry out attacks on Ukraine. According to the expert, there are only 1-2 serviceable ones left in the Russian Federation. For further reconnaissance, they must also be relocated to the territory of Belarus. However, it is not known exactly what condition they are in.

“This is an old Soviet development, because Russia has developed little with regard to weapons. Their main principle is the modernization of Soviet military developments. This plane they just upgraded a little. And the amount of electronics and the aircraft design itself are quite expensive. An antenna in the form of a dish is installed above the fuselage. In addition to a large amount of expensive electronics, the aircraft requires a large number of maintenance personnel. If I'm not mistaken, up to 10 people. That is, this is such a flying radar station with personnel,” Zhdanov said.