Ukraine Uncovers Russian Spy Network Targeting F-16 Locations
Ukraine’s SBU security service revealed on Tuesday that it had uncovered a network of agents working for Russian military intelligence. The agents were trying to discover the locations where Ukraine is keeping its Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets.
In August, Ukraine received its first batch of US-made F-16 jets, after long urging for these planes to help intercept Russian missiles. The locations of these jets are a closely guarded secret.
The SBU stated that it “neutralized a large-scale agent network” consisting of 12 agents and their informants. These individuals had been trying to identify the secret military airfields where the F-16s might be based, according to Russian intelligence reports.
Additionally, the agents were involved in reconnaissance missions targeting Ukraine’s air defense systems and attempted to locate companies producing electronic warfare equipment to counter drones, the SBU reported.
The chief of the network was said to be based in the Dnipropetrovsk region, where he was passing information to a Russian handler. Meanwhile, the agents were operating in five different regions across Ukraine.
The SBU also released images showing four men who were detained, with their faces blurred to protect their identities.
If convicted, the individuals face prison sentences ranging from eight years to life.
One of Ukraine’s F-16s tragically crashed in August, resulting in the death of the pilot.
