Guards mistake civilian plane for drone, fire on Russian aircraft

The war in Ukraine continues. In recent months, the conflict has also reached Russian territory, particularly in the Kursk region. Ukrainians have taken control of some localities. With permission granted by Joe Biden, they can attack the enemy by launching missiles up to 186 miles into the country. This might explain why the Russians confused their plane with a Ukrainian drone.

On Wednesday evening in Bashkiria, an incident occurred where guards at an oil plant opened fire on a civilian aircraft. According to "The Moscow Times," the aircraft was mistaken for a Ukrainian drone. The Antonov An-2 plane, known as "Kukuruznik," was on a photographic mission between Ufa and Salavat.

Bashkiria is located near the border with Kazakhstan, spanning both Europe and Asia. It is approximately 746 miles from the border with Ukraine. In May, a Gazprom oil refinery in Salavat was attacked by Ukrainian drones. The facility was hit, but sustained no significant damage.

There were two pilots and a photographer on board. Despite having prior clearance for the flight and navigation lights turned on, the plane was fired upon at an altitude of about 984 feet near the refinery in Salavat.

The plane, despite being fired upon, continued its flight. No injuries among the crew were reported. "The Moscow Times" reports that the situation has caused concern in the region. The Federal Air Transport Agency is investigating the incident.

The Antonov An-2 is one of the largest single-engine biplanes in the world. It was produced from 1949 to 1996 and for a long time held the title of the longest-produced aircraft in history. The aircraft was also produced in Poland and was used by Germany, Romania, Egypt, Greece, and India.