Russian Black Sea Fleet's Aviation Drills Amidst Ukraine Conflict

The aviation division of Russia's Black Sea Fleet conducted combat drills over the Black Sea, targeting unmanned aerial and sea targets. The exercises involved the Sukhoi Su-30SM aircraft and were conducted at various altitudes, including stratospheric heights. These drills come as Russia's military remains heavily engaged in the Ukraine conflict.

Russia's Black Sea Fleet's aviation division has carried out combat sorties over the Black Sea, targeting unmanned aerial and sea targets, as reported by Interfax news agency on Monday, citing the Russian defence ministry.

The drills, performed at night at varying altitudes, included missions in the stratosphere reaching over 13,000 meters (8 miles). The exercises involved the Sukhoi Su-30SM aircraft, which are designed for gaining air superiority and targeting air, land, and sea threats in challenging conditions.

Russia's armed forces, engaged in an extensive conflict with Ukraine for the past two and a half years, have faced significant challenges on both land and sea fronts. Despite their naval firepower disadvantage, Ukrainian forces have managed to deliver significant blows to Russia's Black Sea Fleet, headquartered in Sevastopol, Crimea.

(With inputs from agencies.)