Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
The question is, if the Russian’s are able to replenish the losses.
Edit: In a previous version, the headline had a typo (airfrafts). This has now been fixed.
Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the Russian forces have lost an estimated 432 according to the newest figures from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense.
These numbers are unverified, but some are trying to find out what the number actually is.
According to Defense Blog, the open-source monitoring group Oryx has visually confirmed at least 41 downed Russian S-34 bombers, but the group emphazises that the numbers might be higher, as it only oncludes visually verified data.
The group has previously verified eight downed Russian Su-35 fighter jets.
But losses are one thing – if the Russian army is able to replenish the losses is another question.
The Kremlin is keeping its cards close regarding the replenishment of equipment, but now, Ukrainian sources say, they have been able to find out how many jets and bombers, the Russian’s have added to it’s forces in 2025.
14 bombers, 10 jets
Ukrainian sources estimate that Russia’s defense industry supplied its armed forces with around 14 Su-34 frontline bombers and roughly 10 Su-35S fighter jets during 2025.
They say the deliveries have expanded Moscow’s available combat aviation fleet at a time of sustained operations.
The numbers have not been independently verified.
Safer launch zones
Ukrainian assessments note that many Russian air strikes continue to be launched from inside Russian airspace. Kyiv remains restricted from using some partner-supplied missiles against those bases.
According to Ukrainian experts, these limits have reduced pressure on Russian airfields and allowed aircraft to operate closer to the border without facing regular long-range attacks.
Despite sanctions that have forced simplified components, analysts say Russia’s ability to introduce new aircraft helps sustain pressure.
Ukrainian units across several sectors report continued glide-bomb attacks on positions, logistics nodes, and troop concentrations, launched from beyond the reach of most air-defense systems.
Glide bombs and advanced fighters
The Su-34, produced by the Sukhoi Design Bureau, is designed for strike missions and is widely used to deploy glide bombs and other guided munitions from outside Ukrainian air-defense coverage.
The Su-35S is considered Russia’s most advanced mass-produced air-superiority fighter.
Analysts say the additional aircraft allow Russia to maintain higher sortie rates while providing stronger fighter cover near the front.
Sources: Defense Blog, Oryx, War_Home/Telegram, Ukrainian Ministry of Defense
