Russia almost completely ceased air operations over southern Ukraine in December, says MOD

The loss of three Su-34 fighter bombers prompted the Russian Aerospace Forces to nearly halt crewed operations in southern Ukraine throughout late December 2023, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has said.  

Ukrainian forces shot down the three Russian combat jets over southern Ukraine on 22 December. 

"Previously, Russian tactical air power had been playing a key role in the south, especially attacking the Ukrainian bridgehead on the eastern bank of the Dnipro River," the MOD said in an update on X.  

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A bridgehead is a strategically secure area, typically located on the enemy's side of a river as in this case, or the frontline. It allows for the establishment of an area for future military operations.  

"There is a realistic possibility that the lack of air support contributed to the failure of an attempt by the Russian Ground Forces' 18th Combined Arms Army to clear the bridgehead," the MOD explained.  

In recent days Russia's military operations have picked up the pace again. Tactical air strikes around the bridgehead have increased, but "at a lower level than before the shootdowns". 

Analysts believe US-supplied Patriot missiles were likely used to shoot down the Soviet-origin supersonic fighter bombers.

On his official website, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said: "Grateful to our soldiers who destroyed three Russian Sukhoi aircraft at once. In the south – in our Kherson region."

Meanwhile, Denmark's delivery of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine faces a six-month delay, according to Danish media.

Reports claimed this was due to a failure to meet requirements such as the training of Ukrainian pilots and mechanics, preparation of ground personnel, assessment of airfield conditions, and the organisation and supply of ammunition and spare parts.