According to the Northern Fleet’s Press Service, Sukhoi Su-24M bombers successfully closed up and docked with Ilyushin Il-78 tanker plane’s refueling cones in designated areas.

This maneuver enables tactical bombers to stay airborne for much longer periods, extending their operational range and capabilities mission-wise. 

The press-service report says that the refueling exercise took place in the dark of the Polar night with consideration for the Far North’s harsh weather conditions.