Yep, that Matthias Rust character probably destroyed the careers at least 20 military folks. And Rust’s life has continued in some weird pattern ever since. Surprised that no one in the KGB killed the guy.
They tracked him pretty much all the way in, but PVO Strany had orders not to engage a known-civilian target unless specifically ordered to do so. This was not long after the KAL 007 shootdown.
You’re right- there was definitely a shake-up.