Russia’s Ministry of Defense announced that a Ukrainian Su-27 fighter jet was shot down on Wednesday during ongoing hostilities in southern Ukraine, amid intensified aerial activity over the Zaporizhzhia region.

According to preliminary assessments circulating among military observers, the aircraft was likely struck over northern Zaporizhzhia Oblast by a long-range R-37 air-to-air missile fired from a Russian Su-35 fighter. The engagement is believed to have occurred near the area of Kam’yanka, as the Ukrainian jet was reportedly approaching its launch corridor to deploy glide bombs against Russian positions, possibly in the direction of Hulyaipole.

While full independent confirmation of the exact circumstances remains unavailable, the incident appears consistent with recent patterns of Russian air defense and air-to-air interception efforts aimed at disrupting Ukrainian strike missions. Analysts note that Ukrainian tactical aviation has increasingly relied on stand-off munitions, making such aircraft vulnerable when approaching launch zones.

What has drawn particular attention is the apparent role of the Russian Su-35. Unlike previous encounters, the aircraft was reportedly not escorting Su-34 bombers carrying KAB glide bombs. Instead, it may have been conducting a patrol or ambush mission, remaining airborne in anticipation of Ukrainian aircraft entering the area.

Ukrainian authorities have not yet issued an official statement confirming the loss of an Su-27 or providing details about the incident. In recent months, Kyiv has typically acknowledged aircraft losses selectively, often citing combat conditions or refraining from comment for operational security reasons.

The reported shootdown comes amid sustained fighting along the Zaporizhzhia front, where both sides continue to rely heavily on air power, drones, and long-range munitions to strike military targets. The situation in the region remains fluid, with further details expected as additional information emerges from official and independent sources. (ILKHA)