russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber crashed near the town of Svirsk in russia's Irkutsk region during what authorities described as a training flight. According to russian media reports, all crew members were able to eject before the aircraft went down.
Witnesses reportedly observed several parachutes descending from the aircraft shortly before it crashed on the bank of the Angara River. Moments later, a large column of smoke rose from the crash site, indicating a significant impact and subsequent fire.
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Preliminary reports suggest that the crash may have been caused by an engine failure. Russian authorities have not yet released detailed findings, and an official investigation into the incident is expected to determine the exact cause.
According to available information, the aircraft's crew consisted of four personnel: the aircraft commander, co-pilot, navigator, and navigator-operator.
Russia's Ministry of Defense confirmed that the aircraft went down while approaching for landing during a scheduled training mission in Irkutsk region. The ministry added that the Tu-22M3 aircraft was not carrying any weapons or ammunition at the time of the incident.
The Tu-22M3 is a Soviet-designed supersonic long-range bomber that remains in service with the russian Aerospace Forces. The aircraft has been used extensively by russia throughout its war against Ukraine, including for launching long-range cruise missiles against Ukrainian targets.
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