Russian Telegram news channel Astra reported on January 27, 2024 that russian aircraft had accidentally discharged two FAB-250 unguided munitions on two russian villages in Belgorod region. The first munition landed on a farm in Postnikov, whilst the second munition landed on an urban street in Strelestkoye village, prompting an evacuation of up to 150 civilians within a 500 m radius, the UK Defense Intelligence reports.
This is the fourth russian accidental aerial munition discharge on its own territory this month. In total, this is the fifth overall within a year, with the earliest occasion in Belgorod City on April 20, 2023.
Read more: The UK Defense Intelligence Reveals a Notable Reduction in Armoured Vehicle Attrition Rates in 2023
It cannot be confirmed whether such incidents occur due to poor procedures when arming the aircraft prior to sorties or poor execution by aircrew during missions. It is likely a combination of both. The increasing frequency of these occurrences likely demonstrates a degree of air and ground crew fatigue within the russian front line, as well as exposing inadequate training.
Read more: The UK Defense Intelligence Analyzes russian Unintended Aerial Munition Discharges
