The Ukrainian Air Force shot down a Russian Su-35 multirole fighter jet over the eastern front on July 8, 2026.
A video released by the Ukrainian military shows the burning wreckage of the advanced aircraft within the area of responsibility of the Third Army Corps.
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The air battle neutralized a highly experienced Russian pilot who had been causing significant defensive challenges on that section of the front, according to Ukrainian Air Force-linked Telegram channel Soniashnyk.
Russian propaganda channels reported that the pilot successfully ejected and returned to Russian-held positions.
The Ukrainian military utilizes these updates to track ongoing aerial engagements.
In an announcement regarding the interception, the military highlighted the continuous threat posed by Russian aviation forces along the contact line.
"A Russian Su-35 fighter jet is still burning within the area of responsibility of the Third Army Corps!"
stated the Ukrainian military.
The military command emphasized that the destruction of this aircraft disrupts Moscow's local aerial operations.
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This intercept follows a series of recent engagements aimed at neutralizing high-value Russian assets.
"Today, another Russian air terrorist was eliminated," said the air force.
The Su-35 is among the most advanced combat aircraft operated by the Russian Aerospace Forces, frequently acting as an escort for Su-34 fighter-bombers that launch guided aerial bombs.
According to Ukraine's General Staff, Russia has lost 436 aircraft and 353 helicopters during the conflict as of Wednesday.
The financial impact of losing such aircraft remains substantial for the Russian military.
A previous strike on June 26 at the Belbek airfield in Russian-occupied Crimea destroyed a Russian MiG-29 fighter jet, causing losses estimated in the tens of millions of dollars by Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate.
Meanwhile, Russia continues its military aviation manufacturing and export initiatives despite frontline attrition.
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Russia's United Aircraft Corporation delivered multiple batches of Su-35S jets throughout 2024 and 2025, and Russia recently completed the production of 20 Su-35 fighters ordered by Iran to modernize its air force.
