The helicopter was used to provide air support for the Russian army, particularly for logistical assistance and evacuation operations, the source said.
The first downing of a Russian Tu-22M3 long-range supersonic strategic bomber, a carrier of Kh-22 cruise missiles, was reported by Ukraine’s Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk on April 19.
This operation, conducted in collaboration with HUR, also saw the interception of two Russian Kh-22 missiles for the first time.
A national security source told NV that the bomber was shot down by a modified Soviet-era S-200 air defense system from about 300 km away — the same means previously used to hit a Russian A-50 early warning and control aircraft.
The bomber managed to reach Stavropol Krai, Russia, where it crashed and broke apart.
Four crew members of the Tu-22M3 aircraft ejected during the fall; two were found alive, and one — dead. The search for the last crew member is ongoing
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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Section: Nation
Author: Владислава Топоркова
