A Tu-22M3 long-range bomber aircraft crashed on Tuesday in Murmansk region, Russian news agencies quoted Russia’s Defence Ministry.
The incident occurred at 13:40 local time at Olenegorsk Air Base, Tu-22M3 long-range bomber aircraft crashed on landing while making a routine training mission.
According to preliminary information, on board were four crew members, two of them – the commander and navigator – survived. The status of other crew members is not reported.
Russia’s Defence Ministry was not immediately able to confirm any casualties.
The crash is under investigation, the Russian news agencies said.
Tu-22M3 is a is a long-range strategic and maritime strike bomber developed by Tupolev for the Soviet Air Force. The aircraft is currently in service with the Russian Air Force and Russian Naval Aviation.
According to Ausairpower.net, Tu-22M3 bomber airctaft, which remained in production until 1993, is primarily used to conduct nuclear strike and conventional attack operations. It can also be deployed in anti-ship and maritime reconnaissance missions.
*This is a developing story. More details will be added as they emerge.
