Russian Su-57 fighter jet explodes at Akhtubinsk airbase

A Russian Su-57 fighter jet, valued at approximately 150 million dollars, exploded during engine startup at the Akhtubinsk military airbase in the Astrakhan region on October 29.

Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) reported the incident, suggesting that low-quality imported aviation fuel may be a cause. The explosion occurs as Russia's domestic aviation fuel production declines due to Ukrainian attacks, increasing its reliance on imports.

HUR has identified a logistics scheme involving the Vadinar refinery in India, operated by Nayara Energy, which supplies fuel to Russia. Rosneft holds a 49.13 percent stake in Nayara Energy. Reports indicate that sanctioned tankers have been used to transport large quantities of JET-A1 aviation fuel from the refinery to Russian ports. Additionally, the sanctioned firm RN-Aero, part of Rosneft, provides refueling services for the Su-57 fleet.