Russian Tu-22M3 Bomber Crashes in Siberia During Training Flight

A Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber crashed in Siberia during a training flight, with all crew members ejecting safely before impact. The incident, which occurred in the Irkutsk region, has raised questions about the cause, prompting an investigation. The aircraft was unarmed and was preparing to land when it went down. This event follows previous attacks on the Belaya airbase, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region. Stay tuned for further updates as details emerge.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 15, 2026, 21:30 IST

Crash of the Tu-22M3 Bomber

On Monday, a Tu-22M3 strategic bomber from Russia crashed during a training exercise in the Irkutsk region of Siberia, as reported by the Russian Defense Ministry. Footage shared on various Russian media platforms depicted the aircraft making a steep descent before hitting the ground and creating a significant smoke cloud. The Defense Ministry confirmed that the bomber was unarmed and was in the process of landing when the incident occurred. Fortunately, all crew members managed to eject safely prior to the crash.

🚨BREAKING: Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber has crashed in Russia’s Irkutsk region. 🇷🇺No confirmed information on the crew’s condition yet. Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/65fG14pirq
— WAR (@warsurv) June 15, 2026

The ministry stated that the pilots survived the crash, and there were no reported injuries or damage on the ground. Although the precise crash site was not disclosed, unofficial sources indicated that the aircraft fell near Svirsk, approximately 50 kilometers northwest of the Belaya airbase in the Irkutsk region. This airbase is home to the 220th Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiment, which operates both the Tu-22M3 and Tu-95 strategic bombers.

The Tu-22M3 is a supersonic long-range bomber that plays a crucial role in Russia's strategic aviation capabilities and has been involved in various military operations over the years. This incident follows a previous attack on the Belaya airbase during a significant Ukrainian drone operation known as Operation Spider Web, which targeted multiple Russian military airfields. Currently, Russian officials have not revealed the cause of the crash, and an investigation is anticipated to clarify the details surrounding this event.