The Pskov airbase was attacked by drones launched from Russian territory, Kyrylo Budanov told The War Zone.
The Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) noted that the upper part of the aircraft contains fuel tanks of cargo jets and a critical part of the wing spar. These sections of the plane were specifically targeted by drones launched from the territory of Russia.
"We are working from the territory of Russia," Budanov said, but did not specify whether the attack was carried out by DIU personnel or Russian partisans. He also declined to disclose the types and quantities of drones used.
It is noted that satellite images claim Budanov's words.
In his assessment of the combat damage to the aircraft, Budanov said that "two were destroyed and two were severely damaged."
Budanov also said that, in addition to the aircraft, fuel tanks were attacked.
The IL-76 is the backbone of Russian military aviation. Budanov said that the DIU targeted these aircraft because they were in good condition and were used to transport military supplies and paratroopers.
On the night of 30 August, explosions were recorded near the airport in Pskov, Russia. The airport was attacked by at least 10 drones.