Ukraine Loses Veteran Su-27 Commander Colonel Oleksandr Dovhach in Combat
Ukraine’s military mourned a significant loss on March 9, 2026, as Colonel Oleksandr Dovhach, commander of the 39th Tactical Aviation Brigade and recipient of the Hero of Ukraine award, was killed while conducting a combat mission on the eastern front.
Colonel Dovhach, based in Zhytomyr, had flown hundreds of combat sorties since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. He led his brigade from the front, participating in key operations defending Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Kherson, covering strike aviation missions, intercepting drones and missiles, and taking part in the defense of Snake Island.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Dovhach died amid heavy enemy air defense fire and significant Russian air superiority during the mission. Russian sources claim a Su-27 fighter was shot down in the same engagement, though details remain limited as the incident is recent.
A highly decorated veteran, Colonel Dovhach was awarded the Hero of Ukraine title in September 2025 and held the full Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky. He was widely respected for his leadership and courage in the air.
He commanded the 39th Tactical Aviation Brigade, which operates Su-27 fighter jets, and was known for leading by example, always flying alongside his pilots on missions. The brigade and the wider Ukrainian aviation community have expressed deep sorrow over his death, honouring his service and dedication.
His loss is felt not only by his unit but across the nation, as Ukraine continues its defense efforts under extremely challenging conditions.
