In a daring heliborne operation early this morning, Pakistan Army rescued Russian climber Alexander Gukov, who was stranded at Latok-I peak in Gilgit-Baltistan since July 24, 2018. Gukov was recovered at an altitude of 20,650 feet (6,257 meters) using a 200 feet long sling.
This was the 8th rescue attempt by Pakistan Army helicopters to recover the Russian climber. Seven earlier attempts since July 26 were hampered by inclement weather and poor visibility.
Gukov and his climbing partner, Sergey Glazunov, had been on an expedition to climb the Latok-I peak in Gilgit-Baltistan. The peak has never been successfully scaled. Glazunov lost his life while rappelling from the mountain on July 25.
This courageous rescue is a testament to the dedication, expertise, training and competence of the Pakistan Army Aviation pilots who braved extremely treacherous conditions to recover the climber.
The Russian government has conveyed deep gratitude to Pakistan for the rescue and lauded the professionalism of Pakistan Army for successfully carrying out this courageous operation.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Government of Pakistan