Emergency: Attempt to stop the Ukrainian advance with Russian Tu-95 strategic bombers.

The Tupolev Tu-95 is a large, four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and missile platform. First flown in 1952, the Tu-95 entered service with the Long-Range Aviation of the Soviet Air Forces in 1956 and was first used in combat in 2015. It is expected to serve the Russian Aerospace Forces until at least 2040. 

Updated an hour ago from Russian media.

The Russian Central Command ordered the take-off and engagement of Ukrainian reserves with Tu-95MS strategic bombers to bomb targets in Ukraine.

⚡️6 bears airborne so far tonight pic.twitter.com/YJZG8PtYsn

— War Monitor (@WarMonitors) June 5, 2023

1.5 hours ago, six Tu-95 bombers took off from Olenia Air Base. 

In contrast, other Tu-22 strategic bombers, reports say four units have taken off, are already striking transport infrastructure in the Ukrainian hinterland on targets of their choice.

⚡️6 bears airborne so far tonight pic.twitter.com/YJZG8PtYsn

— War Monitor (@WarMonitors) June 5, 2023