Russian Su-35, US MQ-9 drones near collision over Syria

Tensions escalated over Syrian airspace as three US MQ-9 Reaper drones reportedly flew perilously close to a Russian Su-35 fighter, narrowly avoiding a collision.

The incident unfolded over the town of al-Sukhnah in Homs province, with the Russian Center for Reconciliation of Opposing Sides disclosing details, Caliber.Az reports.

The drones operated by the coalition approached the Russian aircraft at altitudes ranging between 7,000 to 8,000 meters, marking a hazardous encounter during the Su-35 routine flight. The Russian pilot skillfully maneuvered to prevent a potential collision.

The close proximity incident underscores ongoing tensions and risks inherent in the complex airspace over Syria, where multiple international forces operate. Both Russian and US military authorities are likely to conduct further assessments and communications to mitigate future incidents and ensure operational safety.