Ukrainian Su-27 fighter aircraft crashes in Vinnytsia region

A Su-27UB fighter aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force has crashed during a training flight in Vinnytsia region, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported on Tuesday.

"Today, at around 17:00 near the village of Ulan, between the settlements of Berdychiv and Khmilnyk, a Su-27UB airplane of the Ukrainian Air Force crashed during a training flight. Search and rescue operations are continuing," the statement said.

The accident occurred during the Clear Sky 2018 international exercises. 

The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported later that two pilots had been found dead.

"We report with regret that according to the search and rescue group, the bodies of two pilots were found. The circumstances of the incident are being clarified," the General Staff said.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims.

According to Commander of the East Air Force Command Oleh Strutsinsky, Deputy Commander of Aviation, Deputy Head of the East Air Force Command Ivan Petrenko was killed in the catastrophe of the Su-27 fighter in Vinnytsia region.

A U.S. serviceman also died in the accident, according to the United States Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa. 

"We have seen reports claiming a U.S. casualty and can confirm a U.S. service member was involved in this incident. It is currently under investigation and we will continue to provide more information as it becomes available," reads the statement. 

op