Wagner hit Ilyushin IL 22M down is a loss Russia !

The failed revolt of the Wagner Group last month had far-reaching consequences beyond the escape of its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, and the absorption of its troops into the Russian military.

During the incident, there were instances of friendly fire within Russian forces, resulting in the destruction of multiple helicopters. Most significantly, an invaluable Il-22M aircraft (known as "Coot-B" by NATO) was lost.

It is believed that Wagner troops utilized a Pantsir Air Defense System, a medium-range surface-to-air missile asset, to shoot down the Il-22 aircraft. This unfortunate incident resulted in the tragic loss of the 10-member crew aboard the Il-22M.

In an audiotape released on June 26, the head of the Wagner Private Military Company (PMC) sought to justify the short-lived insurrection while expressing "regret" for the act of downing Russian military planes. The head of the Wagner PMC claimed that they felt compelled to take such actions, asserting that they perceived no alternative course of action.