Part 3/18:
Intelligence analyst Ryan McBeth emphasizes that this attack creates a strategic dilemma for Russia. Its bombers, particularly the TU-95s and TU-22s, are vital assets—used not only for bombing but also for launching cruise missiles. Their destruction forces Russia into a bind: either move the bombers constantly to avoid future attacks—risk fatigue and mechanical wear—or shift to land and sea-based missile launches, which narrows their operational windows and makes targeting easier for Ukraine. Such constraints significantly impair Russian strategic capabilities, especially given that these bombers are no longer being produced in large numbers.