Russian Flanker pilot takes selfie and video of his plane crash

A Russian Flanker fighter pilot, possibly from a Su-27 or Su-35, ejected from his plane and then took out his phone to take a selfie and video. In the clip, he mutters something like: “We were attacked and had no time to react.” The exact crash location was shared on social networks a few days ago, but remains unclear.

Analysts speculate that the incident occurred over Russian territory, but concrete evidence is lacking. Nevertheless, the video captures the calm demeanor of the pilot as he “social engagement for followers”, despite the loss of an aircraft worth millions of dollars. The lack of the Su-34's typical canard wings suggests that the aircraft could be an older Su-27 or a modern Su-35.

Due to the poor quality of the video, it is difficult to make out any details, although some observers claim to have seen flames coming from the plane's engines. The use of “We were attacked” suggests multiple crew members; however, the video does not show a second parachute. It remains unconfirmed whether there was a co-pilot. It is important to note that both the Su-27 and Su-35, which belong to the Flanker family, have two-pilot versions.

The perspective then switches to the pilot's view as he descends with his recognizable orange and white parachute and visor still down. Also visible below him is his portable survival kit, complete with an undeployed life raft for water landings. Halfway through the descent, when he has reached a lower altitude, the pilot removes his oxygen mask, raises his visor and turns to face the camera.

While the Su-35 is usually known as a single-seat fighter, the Su-35UB variant offers a two-seat configuration. Developed by Sukhoi, this model is a multi-role fighter that can accommodate both a pilot and a weapons system officer or a trainer. This two-seat configuration improves combat capability and also serves for training purposes.

His superiors were probably not happy that the clip appeared on the internet – in military terms, it is quite extraordinary. Even more remarkable is the pilot's behavior during the landing approach. At one point, he is seen carefully cleaning the phone's camera with his hand, perhaps to wipe off dust and dirt during the fall to ensure a clear shot. Some Russian online users noted: “If only he had taken such good care of the aircraft entrusted to him and paid for by us citizens.”

From the Ukrainian perspective, speculation quickly arose as to who shot down the Su-35. Unsurprisingly, many pointed the finger at the F-16, despite there being no solid evidence that Ukraine has ever used that fighter jet in combat. Given that both Russia and Ukraine like to flaunt every enemy vehicle they destroy, one can only imagine the uproar if an F-16 had actually shot down a Su-27 or Su-35.

So far, Ukraine has made several claims of shooting down Russian flank fighters with its air defenses. Some losses have even been confirmed by photographic evidence from the battlefield. Meanwhile, incidents of friendly fire among Russian forces have also been reported, resulting in the loss of their own tactical aircraft. Therefore, friendly fire remains a plausible explanation in this scenario.

The video was released in early August, but the exact time of the incident is unclear. In late July and early August, one of the most serious attacks on Russian infrastructure occurred at the Kursk oil depot. Ukraine claimed to have successfully destroyed all three oil hangars. This statement was later confirmed by Russia. In addition, over 80 firefighters were dispatched to the site.

Meanwhile, an online source has pinpointed the location to an area near Chervony Yar in the Kherson region, close to the Russian border. It stated that the incident occurred on December 22, 2023. On that day, reports indicated that Ukraine shot down three Russian Su-34s in southern Ukraine. However, it is possible that this was a separate incident or that the Su-35C was mistakenly identified as a Fullback.

Let's look at the broader implications. In today's digital age, there is a strong desire to show off one's capabilities and seek allies online. However, this Russian pilot will face punishment, as such actions are strictly prohibited in the Russian military.

The Russian military has strict regulations regarding the use of personal electronic devices, including smartphones, during combat missions. These rules are primarily aimed at maintaining operational security and preventing the leakage of confidential information.

In 2019, the Russian Defense Ministry passed a law explicitly banning soldiers from using smartphones and other devices that can connect to the Internet while on duty. This law was in response to several incidents in which confidential information was accidentally leaked through social media posts.

Violations of these regulations can result in severe penalties. Soldiers caught taking selfies or using their cell phones during combat operations face disciplinary action ranging from fines to prison sentences. The exact nature of the punishment often depends on the severity of the offense and the potential impact on military operations.

According to a 2018 BBC report, a Russian soldier was sentenced to two years in a penal camp for sharing a selfie that revealed his unit's location. This incident highlights the serious consequences of violating the army's policy on electronic devices.

The Russian military's stance on this issue is part of a broader effort to improve cybersecurity and protect against espionage. By restricting the use of personal electronic devices, the military aims to minimize the risk of adversaries gaining access to critical information.

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