Russian military aviation faces unprecedented losses, production crisis amid war in Ukraine

Military expert Oleksandr Kovalenko discussed the issue, Obozrevatel reports.

Russia’s war against Ukraine has dealt a historic blow to its combat aviation fleet, with losses mounting to levels unseen since the country’s formation. According to Ukraine’s General Staff, by the end of May 2025, Russia’s Aerospace Forces had lost or damaged 372 combat aircraft, with verified data confirming at least 124 destroyed and 17 damaged. These figures, supported by independent verification, highlight the scale of the crisis facing Russian military aviation.

One might expect such staggering losses to trigger a surge in aircraft production, as seen with Russian tanks and artillery. However, the reality is starkly different. 

Data on aircraft deliveries reveal that Russia’s defense industry has not increased output, even as the war drags on. In the first five months of 2025, Russia’s Aerospace Forces received only eight new combat aircraft—a figure far below even the weakest years of the past decade. 

For example, in 2014, Russia produced 101 combat aircraft, but annual deliveries have steadily declined, with recent years seeing only 20-29 new planes.

The situation is further complicated by the cancellation of advanced projects like the A-100 airborne early warning aircraft and setbacks in simpler programs, signaling systemic issues in Russia’s aviation industry. Sanctions and technological degradation have hampered production, making it impossible for Russia to replace its losses at the necessary pace.

Verified losses include dozens of modern fighters and bombers, such as the Su-34, Su-35, and Su-30, as well as older models no longer in production. The inability to replenish these aircraft underscores the stagnation and decline of Russia’s military-industrial complex.

In summary, Russia’s combat aviation is facing a dual crisis: unprecedented losses on the battlefield and a defense industry unable to recover or adapt. As the war in Ukraine continues, these challenges are likely to deepen, further eroding Russia’s air power and exposing the limits of its military production capabilities.