Russia creating new 'elite' attack aviation group – UK intelligence
Ukrinform
Russia is highly likely creating a new "elite" attack aviation group code-named "Shtorm" to operate over Ukraine. The unit is likely to consist of at least one squadron of Su-24 FENCER and Su-34 FULLBACK fighter-bombers, and a squadron of attack helicopters.
The UK Defense Ministry said this in an intelligence update published on Twitter, according to Ukrinform.
"The mix of aircraft types suggests the group will have a primary role of ground attack missions," the update said.
It added that the Russian Ministry of Defense aims to attract highly skilled and motivated pilots by offering large pay incentives and opening recruitment to retired aviators.
"The creation of the group highlights how Russian assesses its regular air force squadrons have severely underperformed in their core function of conducting airstrikes on Ukrainian lines," the UK Defense Ministry concluded.
