Russian Missile Involvement Alleged in Azerbaijan Air Crash

Friday 27 December 2024 - 07:34

Azerbaijan’s preliminary investigation into a recent airliner crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan, has reportedly identified a Russian missile as the cause. The incident, involving Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8432, resulted in the deaths of 38 people and injuries to 29 others. The aircraft was en route to Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, when it went down on Wednesday.

Sources familiar with the investigation claim that the crash was caused by a Russian Pantsir-S anti-aircraft missile. Reports suggest the plane's communication systems were disabled by electronic warfare measures, leading to its downing. While Azerbaijan has not officially disclosed its findings, these details have been widely reported by various media outlets.

The incident allegedly began when the Embraer 190 aircraft requested an emergency landing in Russia but was denied permission. Instead, it was directed to cross the Caspian Sea toward Aktau. On approach, the plane was struck, leading to a catastrophic descent and eventual crash.

Initial explanations from Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency attributed the crash to a bird strike. However, aviation experts and investigators pointed to visible damage on the tail section, consistent with missile impact. The area where the crash occurred had recently been targeted by Ukrainian drones, adding to the complexity of the situation. Russia’s Ministry of Defence reported intercepting several drones in the region just days before the crash.

Footage circulating online showed the stricken plane descending sharply before hitting the ground and bursting into flames. Despite the emerging evidence, Russian officials have urged caution, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov advising against premature conclusions. Kazakhstan, conducting a parallel investigation, has also refrained from speculating on the cause until its findings are complete.

Azerbaijan observed a day of mourning on Thursday, honoring the victims with a nationwide moment of silence and the lowering of national flags. President Ilham Aliyev expressed profound sorrow, calling the event a tragedy for the Azerbaijani people.

As investigations continue, the international aviation community awaits definitive conclusions to determine the full circumstances behind this devastating incident.