Ukraine hits rare Russian Be-12 aircraft in occupied Crimea

Ukrainian forces have struck a Russian Be-12 amphibious anti-submarine aircraft near Kacha in occupied Crimea, with damage still being assessed.

The strike is part of a wider campaign targeting Russian military and energy infrastructure, including a major oil terminal in Novorossiysk.

Ukraine’s Defense Forces have confirmed a successful strike on a Russian Be-12 anti-submarine amphibious aircraft near Kacha airbase in temporarily occupied Crimea.

According to the General Staff, the aircraft was hit during ongoing operations aimed at degrading Russia’s military capabilities. The extent of the damage is still being assessed. 

The Be-12 “Chaika” is a Soviet-era maritime patrol aircraft designed for anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions. It remains a niche but valuable asset in Russia’s Black Sea aviation component. 

The strike in Crimea coincided with Ukrainian attacks on strategic infrastructure in Russia, including the Sheskharis oil terminal in Novorossiysk, where hits reportedly caused large-scale fires and damage to key export facilities.

EMPR