MiG-31 Jet Crashes Near Leningrad, Pilots Eject

A Russian military announced that one of its MiG-31 fighters crashed in the Leningrad Region on Friday.

"On April 8, a MiG-31 aircraft crashed in the Leningrad Region during a planned training flight. The crew ejected," the press service of the Western Military District (ZVO) reported.

Three Mi-8 helicopters of the search and rescue service were sent to the scene, the headquarters of the Western Military District said.

The military said a technical malfunction is likely the reason why the jet crashed. Further investigation is underway.

The MiG-31 is a two-seat long-range supersonic fighter-interceptor. It is the only Russian fighter jet modified to carry hypersonic missiles. It was used 2-3 times to destroy Ukrainian targets during the ongoing war.