What happened
The incident occurred while the aircraft was operating at an altitude of approximately 180 meters in the area southeast of Rechitsa. During this phase of flight, the plane passed in close proximity to a bridge spanning the Dnepr river. This specific location was under the protection of a Soviet anti-aircraft artillery battery. As a result of the aircraft's trajectory and altitude, it came within range of the defensive position and sustained damage from anti-aircraft fire.
Following the impact, the pilot initiated a forced landing procedure to secure the safety of those on board. The aircraft was brought down in the vicinity of the Uza railway station. Upon touchdown, the damaged airframe ignited, leading to a fire that completely consumed the structure. Emergency evacuation procedures were carried out, resulting in two crew members sustaining injuries, while the remaining personnel escaped without harm.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the incident was not an act of hostile engagement against a specific target, but rather a case of friendly fire. The aircraft was mistakenly identified and engaged by the Soviet anti-aircraft battery defending the bridge over the Dnepr river.