SBI found the black box of the MiG-29 that crashed in the Odesa region during a combat mission

The SBI continues to investigate the circumstances of the MiG-29 fighter's crash in Odesa region

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: On August 10, 2026, a MiG-29 fighter of the Armed Forces of Ukraine crashed in the Berezivka district of Odesa region while performing a combat mission. Employees of the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) discovered the onboard recorder, known as the 'black box,' of the aircraft. However, the black box sustained thermal damage due to a fire, and specialists are currently working on its recovery and data retrieval.

Circumstances of the aircraft's crash

On the evening of August 10, the MiG-29 was conducting a mission to destroy enemy drones when an emergency situation arose during the flight. The aircraft caught fire, after which the pilot lost control and ejected. According to available information, his life is not in danger.

The investigation is currently considering several versions of the causes of the aviation incident, but none have been definitively confirmed. In particular, the following aspects are being checked:

• the technical condition of the missile launched by the pilot at the enemy drone;
• the suitability of the missile for use;
• compliance with flight preparation procedures;
• operation and maintenance of the aircraft.

The wreckage of the fighter, materials from the scene, and testimonies of military personnel are being studied. In connection with these events, a criminal proceeding has been initiated under part 2 of Article 416 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, and the pre-trial investigation is ongoing.

“We will make every effort to objectively and thoroughly establish the reasons for this aviation incident. The investigation must provide a clear answer as to what happened during the execution of the combat mission and which factors led to it. No version will be dismissed without thorough verification.”

Oleksiy Sukachov, representative of the SBI

This incident underscores the importance of aviation safety in combat conditions, as well as the significance of proper training and maintenance of military equipment. The ongoing investigation may provide a key to improving safety standards in the future and preventing similar incidents. The discovery of the black box, even if damaged, can be an important step in establishing the causes of the aircraft's crash and correcting potential deficiencies in pilot training and equipment operation systems.