FT: Ukraine urgently redeploying Air Force fleet and personnel after Russian strikes

Kyiv urgently transports military equipment and personnel of the Ukrainian Air Force against the backdrop of Moscow’s strikes on Ukrainian military facilities, reported from the Financial Times.

Russia’s increased attacks on targets deep within Ukraine appear to have one goal above all: destroying Kyiv’s ability to launch the long-range missiles it is receiving from western allies.

Moscow launched dozens of missiles this week far into western Ukraine, targeting air bases, air strips and a pilot training facility that are up to 1,000km from the front line. Ukrainian officials said 28 cruise missiles were fired on Tuesday alone, 16 of which were intercepted.

The strikes are seen by Kyiv and its allies as part of a weeks-long effort to shatter Ukraine’s runways and the fleet of bombers used to fire British Storm Shadow and French Scalp missiles, according to people familiar with the matter.

To avoid being hit, Ukraine is now racing to move around crucial weaponry and its skilled personnel, officials said. Ukrainian pilots are constantly shuttling around dozens of domestic air bases and commercial airports.

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