Satellite Images Reveal Major Damage at Russia’s Engels-2 Airbase After Ukrainian Drone Strike

Newly released satellite images have confirmed significant destruction at Russia’s Engels-2 airbase, a key site for long-range strategic bombers. The images, dated March 21, reveal multiple large blast craters at a missile storage facility, with several buildings either completely destroyed or severely damaged.

Direct Hit on Russian Missile Storage

Engels-2, located in Russia’s Saratov region, serves as a critical hub for Tu-160 and Tu-95MS bombers—aircraft frequently used to launch Kh-101 and Kh-555 cruise missiles at Ukraine. The recent attack appears to have targeted the storage areas for these very missiles, potentially affecting Russia’s ability to conduct future strikes.

According to Ukrainian sources, the attack was carried out using An-196 Liutyi strike drones, reportedly hitting both the missile storage area and possibly a pre-launch preparation facility for air-launched cruise missiles.

A Blow to Russia’s Strategic Air Capabilities

The visible damage at the airbase underscores Ukraine’s growing capability to strike deep into Russian territory using long-range drones. The Engels-2 base has been a key operational center for launching missile attacks on Ukraine, making it a high-value target.

Open-source analysts confirm that the blast sites align with areas known to store missile containers used for Kh-101 and Kh-555 cruise missiles. These missiles have been used extensively in Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure.

Russia Remains Silent on the Attack

Despite the extensive damage visible from satellite imagery, Russian authorities have not officially commented on the strike. However, local reports and videos suggest emergency response teams were active near the base, with secondary explosions indicating possible ammunition or fuel storage hits.

Engels-2 remains one of Russia’s most vital airbases, and any disruption to its infrastructure could complicate future missile operations. This latest attack highlights the evolving nature of warfare, where long-range drone strikes are playing an increasingly decisive role.