Russia Relies on Five Crimean Airfields Amid Damage

Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk reported that Russia is currently utilizing five military airfields in occupied Crimea, two of which have experienced significant operational reductions due to damage sustained from Ukrainian strikes. Pletenchuk noted that these two airfields no longer support the same level of activity as at the onset of the full-scale invasion, leading to their operations being minimized. Although there are additional facilities available in Crimea, Russian forces have opted to continue using these specific airfields for tactical reasons, rather than relocating to mainland Russia. Reports indicate that Ukrainian drone and naval strikes have forced Russian forces to enhance their air defenses in the region. The Ukrainian military has targeted the Saky airfield, which has been struck multiple times since the war began. The ongoing conflict continues to impact the operational capacity of Russian military assets in Crimea.