A Ukrainian Su-27 fighter jet has successfully hit a Russian air defence system using a US-supplied AGM-88 HARM missile in a daring operation that highlights Ukraine’s ongoing ability to suppress enemy radar threats despite technological challenges.
Footage released by the Sonyashnyk Telegram channel shows the moment the missile struck its target while the Su-27, flown by a pilot from the 39th Tactical Aviation Brigade, was covering a Ukrainian strike group. The missile hit caused the Russian system’s ammunition to detonate, triggering a secondary explosion.
The Ukrainian Air Force celebrated the strike online, praising the pilot as a “Cossack on a Su-27” and noting it was the “first confirmed target” for the weapon system under those conditions. The drone footage captured a solid fuel missile ejecting spontaneously after the radar installation was hit, though the exact model of the defence system remains unconfirmed due to the video quality. Based on observed characteristics, it is suspected to be a Buk or Tor system.
The use of AGM-88 HARM missiles by Ukrainian tactical aviation began in mid 2022. These missiles were originally designed by the United States to target radar emissions and disrupt enemy air defence networks. While Ukrainian aircraft were not built for this kind of Western weapon, adaptations have allowed for their use, though with certain limitations.
Typically, Ukrainian jets launch the missile in the direction of the target, allowing the missile to home in on radar signals. Full destruction is not always achieved, but suppressing enemy systems even temporarily has proven tactically useful.
What makes this strike particularly significant is the release of clear visual confirmation, which is rare due to the nature of HARM missile targeting and the scarcity of combat footage. This instance shows the missile engaging a radar-active system, leading to visible damage and disruption.
Ukrainian forces have reportedly received upgraded AGM-88E models. These include a multi-sensor guidance system with both passive and active radar seekers, along with GPS and inertial navigation. This enables them to strike even if enemy radars are turned off or attempt to relocate. The improved missiles can also target non-armoured infrastructure when required.
