1. Russian Armed Forces downed their own Su-27 fighter jet over Crimea.
2. Ukrainian spokesperson attributed the incident to human error.
3. Russia’s aviation losses have been increasing significantly in 2024.
The Russian Armed Forces accidentally downed one of their own Su-27 fighter jets over Crimea, as confirmed by Ukrainian officials. The incident was attributed to human error, with an operator being eager for a medal and not verifying the identity of the aircraft. The pilot ejected safely, but the plane was destroyed. Russian channels shared footage of the burning jet, with some suggesting it was hit by anti-aircraft weapons. The Russian Ministry of Defense has not officially commented on the crash, and the cause remains unconfirmed.
In addition to the incident in Crimea, Russia’s aviation losses have been increasing significantly in 2024. A Ukrainian missile raid that targeted Belbek Air Base resulted in the destruction of two landing ships and multiple warplanes, including a Su-27 and two others that were damaged. Prior to this, Russia had already lost over a dozen warplanes in late February and March, including Su-34 fighter bombers, Su-35 fighter jets, and A-50 military spy planes. The mounting losses reflect ongoing conflicts and tensions in the region, with both accidental and intentional incidents contributing to Russia’s declining air force capabilities. The exact reasons for these losses and the implications for Russia’s military operations remain subjects of speculation and concern.