Aircraft shot down during mission over Israel

17 fatalities • Afula, Israel • Flight

An aircraft participating in a strike against the Ramat David air base was downed by anti-aircraft fire, resulting in multiple fatalities on both sides.

What happened

During an aerial mission targeting the Israeli air base at Ramat David, the aircraft deviated from its intended path and erroneously struck the town of Netanya. The bombing run impacted the town's primary thoroughfare, causing several injuries to local civilians. While flying at a low altitude, the aircraft was engaged by 40 mm Bofors L/70 anti-aircraft weaponry operated by Israeli Unit 881.

Following the engagement, the aircraft crashed into a military storage facility situated within a pine forest west of Afula. The accident resulted in the deaths of 6 crew members and between 11 and 14 Israeli reservists who were stationed on the ground at the time of the impact.

Findings

The destruction of the aircraft was caused by anti-aircraft fire from an Israeli battery during its low-altitude flight path.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck and downed by Israeli anti-aircraft artillery.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1967-06-06 Tupolev TU-16 accident near Afula, Israel?

An aircraft participating in a strike against the Ramat David air base was downed by anti-aircraft fire, resulting in multiple fatalities on both sides.

Were there any fatalities in the 1967-06-06 Tupolev TU-16 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 17 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1967-06-06 involved a Tupolev TU-16, operated by Iraqi Air Force - Al Quwwat al Jawwiya al Iraqiya, at Afula, Israel.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was struck and downed by Israeli anti-aircraft artillery.

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