MOSCOW — Ukrainian drones struck a major Russian airfield in Engels, Saratov region, on March 20, about 435 miles from the Ukraine war front. The attack caused a large explosion and fire, Russian and Ukrainian officials said. Videos showed a blast spreading from the Engels airbase, home to Russia’s Tu-160 nuclear-capable bombers, damaging nearby cottages.
Russia’s defense ministry reported downing 132 Ukrainian drones over its regions. Ukraine’s defense ministry confirmed the strike, saying it hit the airfield and set off ammunition explosions. They noted Russia uses the base to attack Ukraine. Local governor Roman Busargin said the fire led to evacuations, and district head Maxim Leonov declared a state of emergency. Ten people were injured, and drone parts were found in yards.
The Soviet-era base has been hit before, including a 2022 attack and a 2023 oil depot strike. Details remain unverified.
