New findings suggest that Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 was downed by a missile fired from a Pantsir-S1 air defense system. The system, transported from Syria to Russia, caused the crash on December 25, killing 38 and injuring 29.
Missile Fired from Pantsir-S1 System
According to sources quoted by Azerbaijan-based news channel AnewZ and reported by Euronews, Russian investigators identified the Pantsir-S1 missile as the cause of the crash. The aircraft was approaching Grozny when it was struck. Electronic warfare systems reportedly targeted the plane, leading to critical malfunctions in its control systems before it ultimately crashed near Aktau airport in Kazakhstan.
The investigation uncovered that the missile was fired during drone activity above Grozny. Shrapnel from the explosion hit passengers and crew mid-flight. Russian investigators have reportedly identified the individual who launched the missile and the officer responsible for issuing the order.
Diplomatic Standoff and Accountability
Azerbaijan has rejected any attempts to obscure the incident, insisting on full accountability from Russia. Azerbaijani diplomatic sources told AnewZ that Baku is prepared to escalate the matter to international courts if Moscow refuses to accept responsibility. President Ilham Aliyev outlined three demands:
- Russia must formally apologise to Azerbaijan.
- It must admit guilt and punish those responsible.
- Compensation must be paid to Azerbaijan, as well as to injured passengers and crew.
Russia’s Response and International Cooperation
On December 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly apologised to Aliyev, calling the crash a “tragic incident.” However, he stopped short of accepting responsibility.
Kazakhstan has also joined the call for transparency, sending the aircraft’s flight recorders to Brazil for independent analysis. This step demonstrates cooperation between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan in their pursuit of clarity and justice.
President Aliyev’s Position
On December 29, President Aliyev addressed the Azerbaijani nation, stating unequivocally, “The plane was shot down by Russia. (…) We are not saying it was intentional, but it was done.” Aliyev confirmed Russia’s apology but emphasized the need for further action to meet Azerbaijan’s demands for justice and compensation.
The crash remains a point of contention, with Azerbaijan seeking international backing to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents.