Ukraine’s Air Force Responds to Controversial Video Showing Su-17 Allegedly Flying ‘Over Ukraine’

Ukraine’s Air Force Responds to Controversial Video Showing Su-17 Allegedly Flying ‘Over Ukraine’

A video clip showing a Su-17 fighter jet flying over a man in military attire has caused a stir on social media. Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson, Yuriy Ihnat, appeared on national television on November 13 to deny any knowledge of the aircraft being in service. The exact time and location of the video are still unknown, leading to speculation that it may have been filmed in Ukraine.

The video, which was analyzed by the Defenсe Express publication on November 12, raised several discrepancies. The rondel, which is the emblem on the jet, is difficult to discern in the footage. Additionally, the weather conditions in the video do not match recent patterns in Ukraine, and the trail left by the aircraft resembles that of a civilian plane in a calm sky. Journalists suggested that the video might have been captured in Poland, where such aircraft are in service.

When asked about the video, Ihnat admitted he did not have any concrete information but mentioned the possibility of the Su-22 (Su-17 variant). He explained that they have considered all options, including the provision of helicopters from neighboring countries and allies to assist Ukraine. However, no specific information about the Su-22 was available.

Ihnat further clarified that the Su-17 is essentially the same as the Su-24 but with a single engine. These fighters have the capability to carry cruise missiles and other aviation armaments, requiring Ukrainian pilots to undergo retraining.

In May, Polish President Andrzej Duda announced that Poland had already handed over most of its MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine and is willing to continue doing so.

The original article can be found on The New Voice of Ukraine.