Ukraine Destroys $100M Russian Radar in Occupied Crimea, Says General Staff

Strategic Strikes on Russian Military Infrastructure

Ukraine has reportedly targeted a high-value Russian military asset, striking a 55Zh6U "Nebo-U" long-range radar station near Yevpatoriia in occupied Crimea. The system, estimated to be worth around $100 million, is a critical component of Russia’s air defense network. This operation was reported by the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces on February 13, with the strike occurring a day earlier.

The Nebo-U radar is designed to detect both aerodynamic and ballistic targets at extended ranges, playing a vital role in Russia’s layered air defense strategy. This is not the first time Ukrainian forces have targeted such systems, as they continue efforts to undermine Russia’s surveillance and defensive capabilities.

The General Staff described the attack as part of “systematic measures to reduce the offensive potential of the Russian aggressor.” They emphasized that each targeted facility contributes to the stability of enemy operations in occupied areas. By disrupting command and logistics, these strikes aim to weaken the Russian military's ability to sustain prolonged combat operations.

Expanding Targeted Operations

In addition to the radar station in Crimea, Ukrainian forces conducted multiple attacks across occupied territories on the night of February 13. In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, areas where Russian troops were concentrated were hit near Solodkovodne and Liubymivka. Additionally, positions of Russian drone operators were reportedly targeted near Tokmak and Mykhailivka.

In Donetsk Oblast, Ukrainian forces struck a logistics warehouse near Selydove and a concentration of military equipment near Komyshuvakha, according to the General Staff. While the extent of the damage and Russian losses is still being assessed, these claims remain unverified by independent sources.

Kyiv has increased its attacks on Russian military assets within both Russian territory and occupied regions. These operations reflect a broader strategy aimed at weakening the enemy’s operational capacity.

Diversified Attack Strategies

Earlier on February 13, Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces reported additional strikes. These included an attack on a Russian airfield in occupied Crimea, an electrical substation in Luhansk, and an ammunition depot in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Each of these targets represents a key infrastructure point that supports Russian military operations.

Notably, Ukrainian long-range drones carried out a strike on the Ukhta oil refinery in Russia’s Komi Republic on February 12. This marked a significant milestone, as the attack was approximately 1,750 kilometers (1,087 miles) from Ukraine’s border—setting a new record for the distance of a Ukrainian strike inside Russian territory. This development highlights the growing reach and capability of Ukraine’s unmanned systems.

Ongoing Conflict Dynamics

These recent attacks underscore the evolving nature of the conflict, with Ukraine increasingly targeting strategic infrastructure to disrupt Russian operations. As the war continues, the focus on weakening the enemy’s logistical and technological capabilities remains a central aspect of Ukraine’s military strategy.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing reports of strikes and counterstrikes across various fronts. As both sides continue their efforts, the impact of these operations on the broader conflict will likely become clearer over time.