Ukrainian Strike Deals Blow to Putin's Advanced Weapons Programme
In a significant escalation of the conflict, Ukrainian forces have reportedly targeted and destroyed one of Vladimir Putin's most secretive military assets. According to initial reports, a devastating overnight attack hit a major Russian aircraft manufacturing plant, leaving an experimental laser-carrying warplane in flames.
The Target: A Secretive Laser-Carrying Aircraft
The aircraft at the centre of this attack is the experimental bulb-nosed A-60, a highly classified platform understood to be a carrier for advanced laser weapons. This specific model has been a key part of Russia's research into next-generation armaments, making its potential destruction a substantial strategic loss for the Kremlin.
The assault, which took place last night, successfully set the specialised aircraft on fire. The A-60, based on the Ilyushin Il-76 transport plane, is recognisable by its distinctive nose bulb, which houses the sophisticated targeting systems for its directed-energy armament.
A Major Escalation in Defence Capabilities
This operation marks a serious setback for Russian military innovation and represents a daring deep-strike operation by Ukrainian forces. The ability to hit such a high-value, well-protected target demonstrates a growing capability to threaten sensitive Russian military infrastructure far from the front lines.
Correspondents Will Stewart and Sam Elliott-Gibbs were among the first to report on the incident, which occurred in the early hours of 25 November 2025. The attack not only damages a unique piece of military hardware but also potentially delays Russia's ambitions to field operational laser weapons, a technology seen as pivotal for future warfare.
As this is a breaking news story, further details on the extent of the damage and any potential casualties are still emerging. The incident underscores the continued evolution of the conflict and Ukraine's determined efforts to counter advanced Russian military technology.
