A Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter has crashed during a routine flight in eastern Syria, both pilots died as a result of the incident, Russia’s Defence Ministry has said.

That was reported by TASS.

The incident took place during a routine flight. Two pilots reportedly died. The bodies of both pilots have already been found and delivered to the Khmeimim air base.

“Russian Ka-52 helicopter has crashed during a routine flight over eastern regions of the Syrian Arab Republic. Both pilots died,” – the Ministry said.

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According to the preliminary data, the crash was caused by a technical malfunction, the Russian military said.

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The Ka-52 Alligator is an armed helicopter designed to conduct anti-ground missions and reconnaissance flights.