The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS or RuAF) frequently use their Su-30SM fighter aircraft to counter unmanned seacraft in the Black Sea. A video on social media platform X depicts the process of such operations, which involves equipping the aircraft with various weaponry such as aerial bombs, cruise missiles, air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, and anti-radiation missiles.

The Su-30SM has an impressive track record, destroying targets in almost every engagement. However, there is debate over the financial viability of deploying the Su-30SM against similar targets. The Su-30SM is known to be effective in obliterating marked and target-locked surface drones, but there is also speculation that Russia might be deploying other types of weaponry or using alternative weapons. For example, if the Su-30SM comes within Ukrainian air defenses, the likelihood of being brought down increases. However, some analysts argue that attack helicopters or assault drones are better for these operations, as they can complete the operation and have a lower potential loss compared to the Su-30SM.

The cost of such operations is higher than the cost of operating an attack drone, with data suggesting that an hour’s flight of the Su-30 could set Russian taxpayers back between USD 10,000 and USD 13,000. While there are no concrete figures on the cost of an hour’s flight on a Russian Ka-52 helicopter, it is likely significantly less.

Cost efficiency in warfare is a critical factor that shapes military strategies, procurement decisions, and overall effectiveness on the battlefield. In contemporary military planning, where resources are finite and the geopolitical landscape is complex, achieving cost efficiency is paramount for sustaining military capabilities and achieving strategic objectives.

Military budgets are subject to constraints, and cost efficiency plays a pivotal role in determining how resources are allocated. Maximizing the impact of available funds ensures that military forces are adequately equipped, trained, and sustained, enhancing overall combat readiness.

Russia using jets to combat drones will also have an impact on the maintenance operations which are crucial to extending the lifespan of military equipment and platforms.

These types of inefficiancies could compromise economic stability and decrease the public support for the war.