Ukraine’s devastating strike destroys half of Russia’s 120mm mortar shell stockpile

According to Defense Express, the strike, which took place in the fall of 2024, led to the destruction of approximately 160,000 tons of ammunition, causing seismic tremors recorded as earthquakes. The head of Ukraine’s Security Service, Vasyl Maliuk, confirmed the attack, emphasizing its devastating impact on Russian military logistics.

Maliuk noted that satellite images later revealed massive craters visible from space. He also highlighted that Ukrainian forces, including military intelligence, special operations units, and drone warfare teams, have carried out numerous similar operations.

Ukraine’s long-range strikes have successfully hit 48 high-value targets within Russian territory, including ammunition depots, airfields, and critical energy infrastructure. Defense Express stressed that the number of strikes is likely higher, as some targets were attacked multiple times.

Over the past three years, Ukraine has refined its drone warfare tactics, striking across multiple distances—from frontline operations to deep-penetration attacks inside Russia. According to Maliuk, specialized operators and equipment have been developed for strikes ranging from short-range (0-20 km) to deep-strike missions exceeding 120 km.