Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 Downed by Pantsir-S1 Missile on December 25 Near Grozny, Russian Probe Confirms

Jan 24, 2025, 09:30 PM

Investigations into the downing of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 have revealed that a Pantsir-S1 air defense system was responsible for the incident. Reports indicate that the missile was fired from a system that had been transferred from Syria to Russia shortly before the event. The aircraft was approaching Grozny on December 25 when it was struck. Azerbaijani authorities, referencing findings from Russian investigations, have identified those responsible for the attack, including a Russian officer who allegedly issued the order to fire. The Pantsir-S1 system has been the subject of scrutiny due to its previous deployment in conflict zones, including Syria.