Key Russian spy plane reportedly destroyed in Belarus 'significant' blow to Moscow capabilities

The reported destruction of a key Russian surveillance aircraft in Belarus would be a "significant" blow to Moscow’s air capabilities, the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has said.  

It was commenting on an alleged attack on a A-50 Mainstay early warning plane, which was apparently targeted by Belarusian rebels near Minsk.

Whilst Forces News can’t verify the reports, it’s claimed drones were used to strike the spy plane.

• Is the West's more offensive support of Ukraine a sign of 'mission creep'?
• Watch: Ukrainian soldiers remember those they have lost to war
• Ukraine war: Russian drones being used to 'spread propaganda via text messages'

Mainstay is the Nato designation for that type of aircraft.

In a defence intelligence update, the MOD said the alleged incident likely means Russia now has only six A-50s in service, "further constraining Russian air operations". 

A Belarusian anti-government group says it was responsible for the attack on the aircraft at Maschulishchy air base near Minsk.

The MOD said the damage and attribution of the attack has not been "officially corroborated". 

"The loss of an A-50 Mainstay would be significant as it is critical to Russian air operations for providing an air battlespace picture," the MOD said. 

Belarus is a staunch ally of Russia and when Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine just more than a year ago, some Russian troops entered from Belarus. 

The Kremlin has not commented on the reports.