Photos appear to show a Soviet-era M-55 aircraft equipped with an external military reconnaissance pod.
Bringing the aircraft back into action would improve Russia's limited reconnaissance abilities in Ukraine.
The aircraft, which was designed for high-altitude reconnaissance missions, would bolster Russia's currently limited capabilities in Ukraine, the department said.
AdvertisementIt has recently been observed carrying a military reconnaissance pod, the UK department noted, which can be attached to military aircraft externally to enhance their reconnaissance capabilities.
The M-55's ability to operate at high altitudes allows it to work at "considerable stand-off range," the UK department said.
Persons:
—, Russia's
Organizations:
Service, UK Department of Defense, Defense Express
Locations:
Soviet, Ukraine, Russia, Moscow, Russian