Two Mi-8 helicopters and two fighter jets crash in Bryansk region amid possible missile strike
Two Mi-8 helicopters of the Russian Aerospace Forces, along with a Su-34 fighter-bomber and a Su-35 fighter jet, crashed almost simultaneously in the Bryansk Region. Initial reports suggest a possible missile attack as the cause, according to the daily Kommersant.
Early information indicates the helicopters and the fighter aircraft belonged to the same air group. The newspaper notes that the Su-34 and Su-35 were believed to be preparing for missile and bomb strikes against targets in the Chernihiv region of Ukraine. The helicopters were described as providing cover for the fighters and, among other duties, ready to evacuate the crew in case of a downing. Official statements indicate that all pilots lost their lives in the accidents.
The report mentions video evidence circulating on social media showing at least one Mi-8 being struck by a rocket and crashing in the suburbs of Klintsy. Authorities suspect ground launches may have been involved. In response, Bryansk regional police activated a Prevention plan to search for potential saboteurs and threats in the area.
Experts consulted on the incident say the trajectory of the missiles suggests air-to-air weaponry, implying the attack may have come from hostile aircraft or helicopters. The analysis points to the air group potentially falling into an air ambush, rather than an isolated ground strike.
Before this report appeared, online footage circulated claiming four separate crashes involving helicopters and planes in the Bryansk region over a short period of time. The events described are still under investigation and details may evolve as authorities gather additional information.