"We are aware of the reporting on the loss of a Russian military aircraft. Our ships stand ready to assist any nation when called upon to render assistance at sea, which is a fundamental element of responsible mariners," Raines said on Wednesday.
Russia's Hmeymim Airbase lost contact with the Il-20 military aircraft late on Monday when four Israeli F-16 jets attacked Syrian targets in Latakia province. All 15 servicemen on board the plane were killed when it was accidentally struck with Syria friendly fire.
The Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday that a search and rescue operation involving eight Russian vessels, had been launched following the aircraft crash.
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The ministry blamed the Israeli forces for the deadly incident, pointing out that the Israeli military had deliberately created a dangerous situation by using the Russian aircraft as a shield against Syrian air defense systems.