Major General Vladimir Popov, Honored Military Pilot of Russia, commented on the crash of a Ukrainian military aircraft that occurred overnight on August 22–23. He estimated that Ukraine currently has the equivalent of one air regiment of MiG-29 fighter jets, roughly 18 to 25 aircraft in varying technical condition and combat readiness.

Popov noted that Ukraine could restore damaged aircraft either on its own or with Western assistance. He also pointed out that the Ukrainian Air Force still operates Su-27 fighters, which are in comparatively better condition, though their maintenance is handled domestically. According to him, Ukrainian crews often rely on «aviation cannibalism», repairing one operational jet by dismantling several others.

The general stressed that Russian aviation continues active operations aimed at detecting and destroying Ukrainian fighters, targeting both equipment and personnel.

Popov also addressed the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade, known as the «Ghost of Kiev», where MiG-29 pilot Sergey Bondar, who was killed in the crash, had served. He described the brigade’s title as more of a propaganda label than a reflection of actual combat effectiveness.

He explained that such names — «Ghost of Kiev», «Sharpened Eye», «Ace Pilots» — were adopted for publicity purposes rather than combat value. Behind them, he argued, are persistent issues with pilot training within the Ukrainian Air Force. According to his assessment, the force suffers from shortages of both pilots and maintenance crews, leaving units with prominent titles staffed mainly by mid-level line pilots.