### Russian Forces Continue Targeting Ukrainian MiG-29 Jets Amid Ongoing Conflict

In a recent statement, Russian authorities announced that their operational-tactical aviation units, unmanned aerial vehicles, missile forces, and artillery have inflicted damage on the infrastructure of Ukrainian military airfields across 149 regions. This latest offensive reflects a persistent strategy to undermine Ukraine's air capabilities.

The Ukrainian Air Force, which predominantly relies on MiG-29 fighter jets, has faced significant challenges due to these attacks. Despite being older than modern fighters like the F-16, the MiG-29s remain crucial for Ukraine's defense and offensive operations. These jets, known for their speed and maneuverability, have been repeatedly targeted by Russian forces, resulting in substantial losses.

One example of such an attack occurred in April 2024, when a MiG-29 was destroyed at Dnepr Airbase while preparing for takeoff. This incident followed a pattern seen in previous years. In January 2023, another MiG-29 faced a similar fate, annihilated by a Russian strike before it could ascend. Such losses have been recurring since the conflict's early days, including a notable attack in June 2022, which halted preparations for a MiG-29's sortie.

Despite these setbacks, the Ukrainian Air Force continues to upgrade and adapt its MiG-29s. These aircraft, equipped with RD-33 turbojet engines, boast impressive speeds of up to 2,400 km/h and an operational range that extends to 1,500 km with additional fuel tanks. The MiG-29s can carry up to 4,000 kg of various payloads, supported by an upgraded N-019 "Nikhel" radar system.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which escalated dramatically on February 24, 2022, when Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a robust military assault on Ukraine, has seen numerous airstrikes targeting Ukrainian airfields. The continued reliance of the Ukrainian Air Force on MiG-29s highlights the urgency for advances in aerial combat capabilities despite ongoing threats and resource limitations.

The destruction of these aircraft underscores the vulnerability of Ukraine's air defenses under continuous Russian assaults. However, the Ukrainian military remains resilient, maintaining operational readiness and adapting its strategies to counteract the Russian offensive. As the conflict persists, the MiG-29 stands as a testament to Ukraine's enduring commitment to defending its skies.