A Russian Tu-22M3 strategic supersonic bomber crashes in Siberia’s Irkutsk region during a training flight, according to the Russian Defence Ministry and reported by multiple outlets. The crash occurs on Monday while the aircraft is conducting a training mission. The Defence Ministry says the crew manages to eject safely, indicating there are no immediate fatalities reported in the sources provided.
The Tu-22M3 is a Soviet-era “Backfire” bomber, a type Russia has used for combat missions, including in Syria and Ukraine. The aircraft is also described as being able to carry hypersonic “Kinzhal” missiles, which are associated with Russia’s broader missile capabilities.
Local reports mention smoke visible from a distance, with one outlet noting that smoke is seen for miles, while other coverage focuses on the crash location and the training context. Details about the exact cause of the crash are not included in the excerpts, and no additional information on the damage site or ongoing investigation is specified.
