What happened
During a scheduled test flight originating from Seshcha AFB in the Bryansk region, an aircraft experienced a catastrophic loss of control. While the flight was maintaining an altitude of 6,000 metres, the crew attempted a turn that involved applying maximum rudder deflection. This maneuver caused the aircraft to enter a high angle of attack, leading to an immediate loss of controllability.
Following the loss of control, the plane entered a steep dive. During the descent, the structural integrity of the aircraft was compromised as it partially disintegrated mid-air. The wreckage eventually impacted a field situated approximately 20 km away from the departure airbase. There were no survivors among the seven crew members on board.
Findings
Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was an improper use of flight controls. Specifically, the loss of control was triggered by inadequate rudder positioning performed by a member of the crew during the turn.