According to British intelligence, the destruction of three Russian SU-34 fighters over the south of Ukraine had an impact on the course of operations of Russian troops on the left bank of the Dnipro River in the Kherson region.
The intelligence report stresses that on December 22, 2023, the Ukrainian military shot down three Russian Su-34 fighters in the airspace above the south of Ukraine.
Previously, the decisive role in the south was played by the tactical aviation of Russia, which carries out attacks, in particular, on the Ukrainian bridgehead on the left bank of the Dnipro. However, after the events of December 22, it is noted that Russian fighters «have almost completely ceased hostilities».
«There is a realistic possibility that the lack of air support contributed to the failure of an attempt by Russian Ground Forces’ 18th Combined Arms Army to clear the bridgehead». — the intelligence reports.
Nevertheless, it is noted that in recent days Russia is increasing tactical air strikes in the area of the Ukrainian bridgehead again, but at a lower level than before the loss of SU-34 fighters.
«This once again demonstrates that Russia’s inability to establish air superiority in the early stages of the Russia-Ukraine war continues to undermine their daily operations», – summarized the intelligence in the review.
