Russia successfully thwarts Ukrainian plot to hijacking Tu-22M3 strategic bomber
(MENAFN) According to recent reports from Russian media, the federal Security Service (FSB) has disclosed that it successfully thwarted an alleged plot orchestrated by Ukrainian special services aimed at hijacking a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber outside of Russia. A Russian news agency, citing the FSB's statement, highlighted the purported involvement of NATO special services in the planning and execution phases of this operation as well.
The FSB's statement pointed out that Ukrainian intelligence allegedly devised a scheme to entice a Russian military pilot with promises of significant financial compensation and the prospect of Italian citizenship. The objective was to persuade the pilot to fly the Tu-22M3 bomber to Ukraine, thereby facilitating its seizure. The Tu-22M3, renowned for its capabilities as a long-range supersonic missile carrier bomber equipped with variable-sweep wings, is specifically designed for conducting precision strikes against both maritime and terrestrial targets using advanced guided missiles and bombs, including conventional and nuclear ordnance.
In addition, Russian counterintelligence reportedly gained critical intelligence during the operation, which subsequently led to a targeted strike on a Ukrainian air base. This incident underscores the heightened geopolitical tensions in the region and the complex nature of intelligence operations involving sophisticated military assets and strategic maneuvers.
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