Aviation News – A Russian Su-30 fighter jet crashed during a training flight in the Republic of Karelia, killing both pilots on board, according to the country’s Ministry of Defense.
The Ministry confirmed the incident occurred during a scheduled exercise involving aircraft from Russia’s 159th Fighter Aviation Regiment. Regional head Artur Parfenchikov stated that the pilots, both members of the regiment, died at the scene. The crash adds to a series of recent aviation losses in Russia’s military training operations.
The Su-30, a twin-engine multirole fighter, is widely used for air defense training and tactical missions. Such flights are designed to maintain pilot readiness and test aircraft systems under operational conditions. The sudden loss of the aircraft underscores ongoing concerns about equipment strain and pilot safety in high-intensity training environments.
A Ministry of Defense spokesperson expressed condolences and emphasized the professionalism of the pilots, saying, “These aviators served with distinction, and their commitment to duty represents the highest standards of our aviation forces.”
Authorities have opened an investigation to determine the cause of the crash, with early assessments expected in the coming weeks. The incident may prompt further reviews of training protocols and aircraft maintenance procedures.
The loss of the Su-30 and its crew highlights the risks associated with military aviation and reinforces the need for continued scrutiny of operational safety. Investigators aim to identify contributing factors to help prevent similar accidents.