At the Engels Aerodrome Su-35 was noticed: why they did not reflect the attack of Ukrainian drones

The placement of Su-34 bombers, Su-25-25 guns and Su-35C fighters-aircraft, which are usually based on aerodromes closer to the front line, is reported. In this regard, Defense Express analysts found out why the presence of these fighters did not prevent the attack of Ukrainian UAVs on the Russian airfield. The authors of the material write that the Tracing community on January 27 published personnel, which recorded the Su-35C flight in the Air Base.

It is also argued that these fighters are often accompanied by strategic bombers Tu-95MC and Tu-160 during training flights over the Saratov region. In addition, satellite images dated December 7, 2024 showed the presence of at least two SU-35Cs at the airfield, eight Su-25 ribbles and ten Su-34 bombers.

Despite the placement of these fighters, in January 2025 the airfield and its infrastructure suffered two blows of Ukrainian drones, in particular, on the Krystal oil depot, where fuel is stored for strategic bombers. The strokes were taken on January 8 and 14, and the question arises as to why Su-35C fighters could not prevent these attacks. Against the background of these events, the analytics have hypothesized about the temporary use of the aerodrome.

According to experts, "Engels" could be used as an intermediate platform to move tactical aviation, which explains the appearance of Su-25, Su-34 and Su-35C. And after the oil depot attacks, the Russian command could attract fighters to enhanced the protection of strategic air base. However, there are no comprehensive explanations for the placement of tactical aviation on "Engels", where strategic bombers of Tu-95MS and Tu-160 are usually based.