On the night of November 25, 2023, the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) struck the Russian A-60 aircraft, known as the "flying laboratory," during an attack in Taganrog. This aircraft was used for testing laser weapons.
According to information released by the publication "Militarnyi," there was a precise strike on the military airfield "Taganrog-Southern," where this experimental aircraft was located. Experts also confirmed the possible complete destruction of the aircraft in a video that circulated online.
What is known about the A-60 aircraft?
The A-60 serves as a carrier for an air-based megawatt laser variant planned for deployment in space, known as 17F19D "Skif-D." It is reported that only two prototypes of this system were built in the USSR, and the damaged aircraft had been sitting on the airfield for a long time.
Context of the attack
This nighttime attack also resulted in damage to civilian buildings in Taganrog, confirmed by the governor of the Rostov region, Yuri Slyusar. As a result of the shelling, three people were reported dead and numerous houses and cars were damaged.
Meanwhile, explosions were also heard in Novorossiysk, but details regarding the consequences of the attack there have not yet been disclosed. Official sources did not comment on the situation regarding the attack in Taganrog at the time of preparing this material.
It is noteworthy that news about the development of laser weapons is not new. Armies of many countries, including the USA and the UK, are actively seeking new technologies to enhance the effectiveness of their air defense systems.
