- Category
- Latest news
“Tire Covers Didn’t Save Them”: Ukraine Air Force Spokesperson About Russian Aviation Losses

Even tire covers and painted aircraft silhouettes couldn’t save Russian aviation from massive losses, thanks to a successful SBU operation, according to Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Air Force, in a national telethon on June 5.
“I think we should thank our SBU and everyone involved in this operation. All of Ukraine. And not just Ukraine, let's say. Because this was an unprecedented operation in history,” Ihnat emphasized.
He reminded that previously Ukraine celebrated even the destruction of individual A-50 or Tu-22 aircraft.

“It was an incredible celebration. Any aircraft, such as the Su-34, for example. But here, we’re talking about confirmed destruction or damage to such a large number. Of course, they still have planes. Of course, they still have missiles, and the threat hasn’t disappeared. But the arsenal of this unique equipment has been significantly reduced,” he noted.
As for the tire covers and painted aircraft on runways, Ihnat said, “People have already turned these into memes. I don’t know how much they can help.”
He explained that, at best, they might offer some protection from debris to minimize damage.
“Aircraft are not armored targets. The body of an aircraft is made of duralumin, which is easily pierced by fragments from even a small explosive device. So, everyone has had a laugh about the tire covers. Even Russian aviation pages have started trolling, saying that neither the tire covers nor the painted aircraft silhouettes on the runways helped,” Ihnat added.
Earlier on June 4, SBU released a video showing drone strikes on Russian strategic aircraft across four airfields.
According to the SBU, the operation targeted the Olenya, Ivanovo, Dyagilevo, and Belaya air bases, all of which host long-range aircraft regularly used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.
