Su-27 Crash: Ukraine Loses Key Fighter Jet in Mysterious Incident

A Ukrainian Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet crashed during a combat mission on Monday morning, according to Ukraine’s armed forces. The jet was providing air support to troops and fighting off a Russian drone attack when the accident happened.

The pilot safely ejected and was not injured. This incident follows the death of another pilot in a separate F-16 crash earlier this month. Ukraine’s military has not shared further details, and Newsweek has reached out to the defense ministry for comment.

Details of the Crash

The Sukhoi Su-27, a Soviet-era fighter jet, was part of a mission to defend Ukrainian forces on the front lines. At the time of the crash, the jet was responding to a wave of Russian drones targeting military positions. Ukraine’s air force confirmed the pilot ejected successfully and survived. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

This marks the second fighter jet accident in May. On May 5, a Ukrainian F-16 pilot died during a combat operation. The F-16s, recently supplied by Western allies, are advanced jets meant to boost Ukraine’s air defenses. The earlier crash raised concerns about training and equipment challenges.

Background: Ukraine’s Air Defense Challenges

Ukraine’s air force relies heavily on older Soviet-era jets like the Su-27 and MiG-29. These planes are critical for intercepting Russian missiles, drones, and bombers. However, maintaining these jets is difficult due to limited spare parts and heavy use in the war.

Western countries, including the U.S. and European nations, have pledged F-16 fighter jets to modernize Ukraine’s air force. The first batch arrived in late 2023. Pilots underwent accelerated training abroad, but the recent F-16 crash highlights risks linked to rushed deployments.

What Happened to the Su-27 Jet?

The Su-27 crashed near the front lines in eastern Ukraine. Military experts suggest possible causes:

1. Technical Failure: Aging jets often face engine or system malfunctions.

2. Enemy Fire: Russian forces may have hit the jet with anti-aircraft weapons.

3. Pilot Error: High-pressure combat missions can lead to mistakes.

Ukraine’s military has not confirmed the reason. A spokesperson said, “Investigations are ongoing. Our priority is the pilot’s safety and understanding what went wrong.”

The Pilot’s Survival: A Rare Bright Spot

The safe ejection of the Su-27 pilot is notable. Ejecting from a crashing jet is extremely dangerous. Pilots face risks like spinal injuries or capture by enemy forces. Ukraine’s air force praised the pilot’s quick reaction, calling it “a testament to rigorous training.”

In contrast, the F-16 pilot who died on May 5 could not eject in time. That crash occurred during a night mission, complicating rescue efforts.

Broader Impact on Ukraine’s War Effort

Losing fighter jets strains Ukraine’s limited air defenses. Each jet destroyed reduces their ability to protect troops and cities from Russian strikes. The Su-27 crash also raises questions about how long older jets can keep flying.

Western allies have promised more F-16s, but delays in deliveries and training remain issues. A NATO official told Newsweek, “Ukraine needs modern jets urgently, but integrating them into combat takes time.”

Russia’s Response

Russian state media quickly reported the Su-27 crash, claiming it was shot down by their forces. Ukraine denied this, calling it “disinformation.” Independent analysts have not verified either claim.

Meanwhile, Russia continues heavy drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Kyiv says these strikes aim to weaken morale and military production.