Strategic Bomber Crashes During Training Flight in Irkutsk Region

A Russian strategic bomber crashed during a training flight in Siberia’s Irkutsk region, according to the Defense Ministry. Video footage shows the Tupolev Tu-22M3 diving toward the ground with a large smoke plume as the crew ejected safely. The ministry stated the aircraft did not carry warheads at the time of the crash. The incident is believed to have occurred near Svirsk, about 50 kilometers northwest of the Belaya air base, which houses the 220th Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiment. The cause remains under investigation, and authorities reported no ground damage or casualties beyond the escaped pilots.