Ukraine obtained valuable intelligence from Mi-8 defection special operation

The operation was of "fundamental importance" for the security and defense of Ukraine, and Russia will feel its "long-term consequences," especially in terms of morale, psychological state, security and defense, Yusov  said.

"As a result of the operation, we were able to obtain extremely important information about Russian aviation, and many other details that will help us protect our skies and destroy the enemy," Yusov said.

The helicopter flown to Ukraine by the defector was transporting "valuable cargo,",including aviation equipment for Russian Su-30M and Su-35 fighter jets, revealed Artem Shevchenko, a Ukrainian journalist and military serviceman, and the producer of the documentary series "Military Intelligence of Ukraine".

"As a result, the combat readiness of the aircraft to which this cargo was to be delivered was affected,” Shevchenko said.

“Also, the technological equipment on board helped our air forces and intelligence better understand the enemy's aviation security and communications system. This has had, and will continue to have, a significant impact on the results of our counter-measures."

Special operation Nightingale – What is known:

Ukraine conducted a six-month-long special operation to arrange for a Russian pilot to surrender his Mi-8 military helicopter, Ukrainian Defense Intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said in an interview with RFE/RL on Aug. 23.

The operation, codenamed “Nightingale” was a meticulously planned and expertly executed mission by Ukrainian military intelligence, Ukrainian intelligence said. The outcome was the defection of a Russian pilot to Ukrainian territory, along with an Mi-8AMTSh PKS RF helicopter laden with components for combat aircraft.

“We successfully established contact with the pilot, covertly relocated his entire family, and orchestrated circumstances for him to transport the aircraft with an unsuspecting crew. When they became aware of their location, they attempted to flee. Regrettably, they were neutralized” said Budanov.

The pilot and his family are now in Ukraine. The Mi-8 remained here, along with the parts for the fighter jets.

It will join the Ukrainian fleet of attack helicopters.