Mann­skæð loft­á­rás Rússa í Norður-Úkraínu

On March 31, 2022, in the northern part of Ukraine, near the midtown of Chernihiv, three Russian military helicopters reportedly crashed. According to the latest information, there are said to be at least 27 fatalities from these incidents, making it the deadliest helicopter accident in the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The crashes occurred early in the morning, with the first report coming from the Ukrainian military, stating that two Mi-8 helicopters and one Mi-24 helicopter had gone down in the region. The exact causes of the crashes are still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that the helicopters may have been hit by Ukrainian anti-aircraft fire or suffered mechanical failures.

The Mi-8 helicopter is a versatile, twin-engine transport helicopter that has been in service with the Russian military since the late 1960s. It is widely used for transporting troops, cargo, and providing medical evacuation services. The Mi-24 is a heavy attack helicopter, known for its powerful weapons systems and advanced avionics.

The crashes took place in the vicinity of Chernihiv, a city located about 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. The area has seen intense fighting between Ukrainian forces and Russian troops, with Chernihiv itself coming under heavy shelling and bombardment in the early stages of the invasion.

Ukrainian authorities have stated that they are currently searching for debris and other evidence related to the crashes, including the recovery of any potential survivors or victims. The Ukrainian military has also reported finding the wreckage of a fourth helicopter, although the identity and type of the helicopter are still unknown at this time.

The crashes are a significant loss for the Russian military, with the confirmed deaths of at least 27 personnel, and potentially more if there are survivors or victims yet to be accounted for. The incidents also highlight the ongoing dangers and uncertainties of the conflict in Ukraine, with both sides continuing to suffer casualties and losses on the ground and in the air.

It is important to note that the situation in Ukraine is rapidly evolving, and the information provided here may change as new details emerge. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to reliable news sources and official statements from the Ukrainian military and other relevant authorities.