Ukraine's military intelligence has reported the successful downing of a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet over the Black Sea, marking another setback for Moscow's forces in the ongoing conflict.
According to Irish Star, the incident occurred on September 11, 2024, involving a high-value aircraft worth an estimated £40 million ($50 million).
The Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) stated that the jet was shot down using US-supplied MANPADS (Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems). This event highlights the continuing effectiveness of Western military aid to Ukraine and the persistent challenges faced by Russian air forces in the region.
Russian Search and Rescue Efforts Reveal Aircraft Debris
Following the loss of contact with the warship at approximately 5 am on September 11, Russian forces initiated a search and rescue operation. The GUR provided details of the Russian response:
The occupiers lost contact with their warship on September 11, 2024, around 5 am. Roughly three hours later, the Russians began a search and rescue operation involving the An-26 aircraft, as well as Mi-8 and Ka-27 helicopters.
The search team reportedly discovered evidence of the downed aircraft, including a characteristic aviation fuel stain and debris, about 50 miles northwest of Cape Tarkhankut. However, the fate of the jet's crew remains unknown at this time.
Strategic Significance of the Su-30SM Fighter Jet
The Su-30SM, introduced to the Russian Air Force 12 years ago, is considered one of Russia's premier fighter aircraft. Designed primarily for air superiority missions, it also possesses ground-attack capabilities, making it a versatile asset in modern warfare.
The loss of such an advanced aircraft represents not only a financial blow but also a potential impact on Russian air operations in the Black Sea region. The jet was reportedly part of Russia's 43rd separate naval aviation regiment, operating from the Saki airfield in occupied Crimea.
This incident adds to a series of aircraft losses suffered by Russian forces in recent months. Earlier this year, an Su-34 fighter-bomber crashed in North Ossetia, resulting in the death of its crew. Additionally, a Mi-8 helicopter accident in the Chelyabinsk region last year led to fatalities for all on board.
Ongoing Pattern of Russian Aircraft Losses
The downing of the Su-30SM is not an isolated incident. In June, Ukrainian forces released information detailing the damage or destruction of over 30 Russian aircraft during the first half of 2024 alone. This pattern of losses suggests ongoing challenges for Russian air defenses and the effectiveness of Ukrainian counter-air operations.
Ukraine's GUR emphasized the success of the operation in their statement:
During the operation in the waters of the Black Sea, the soldiers of the special unit of the GUR of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine destroyed the Russian combat plane Su-30SM with a hit from MANPADS.
This latest incident underscores the continued intensity of the conflict and the critical role that advanced weaponry, including US-supplied missiles, plays in Ukraine's defensive efforts.
The destruction of a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet over the Black Sea marks a significant event in the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian forces utilized US-supplied missiles to down the £40 million aircraft on September 11, 2024.
The incident occurred near Cape Tarkhankut, where Russian search efforts were uncovering debris and fuel residue. This event adds to the mounting aircraft losses faced by Russian forces, highlighting the challenges in maintaining air superiority in the region.
