Russian jet downed by Turkish F-16 planes near Syria-Turkey border

Tension between Russia and Turkey has climbed following shooting down of a Russian SU-24 aircraft by Turkish war planes near the Syria-Turkey border, over Lattakia’s Yamadi village (24th Nov 2015).

The Turkish Armed Force also stated that the jet of “unknown nationality” had been warned 10 times in five minutes about its violation of the border. It is reported that the fighter jet was downed due to border breach after repetitive warnings within the engagement rules.

On the contrary however, it was declared by the Russian Defense Ministry that the downed jet had not violated Turkish airspace”, adding that all their aircrafts were over the Syrian territory and the fate of the pilots was unclear. Moreover the Russian Defense Ministry reported that the reason of shot down was an “overland fire”.

The Turkish PM’s Office reported, Turkey was set to consult with NATO and the UN over the recent developments at the Syria border.President Erdoğan was also informed of the incident by head of army.

Witnesses added the aircraft had crashed over the tents built in the village and pilots had landed with aid of parachutes. Doğan News Agency reporters said smoke had been rising from the region. It was also reported Russian helicopters were searching the area to reach the pilots along with the wreckage of the jet.

SOURCE: MEDIA