B-52 bomber shot down over Iran

5 fatalities • Shalamcheh, Iran • Flight

A heavy bomber was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile while flying at high altitude near Shalamcheh, resulting in five fatalities.

What happened

During a high-altitude cruise at 40,000 feet over Iranian airspace, a B-52 bomber was struck by a 'Hawk' surface-to-air missile. Following the impact, the aircraft entered a steep descent toward the earth, eventually impacting the ground in the vicinity of Shalamcheh.

Out of the six people on board, there were five fatalities and one survivor among the crew. The incident occurred during the cruise phase of the flight, as the aircraft was maintaining its assigned altitude before being intercepted.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the destruction of the aircraft was the direct result of being shot down by an Iranian missile.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed by a 'Hawk' surface-to-air missile strike.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-01-09 Tupolev TU-16 accident near Shalamcheh, Iran?

A heavy bomber was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile while flying at high altitude near Shalamcheh, resulting in five fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-01-09 Tupolev TU-16 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-01-09 involved a Tupolev TU-16, registration 5018, operated by Iraqi Air Force - Al Quwwat al Jawwiya al Iraqiya, at Shalamcheh, Iran.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was destroyed by a 'Hawk' surface-to-air missile strike.

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