Washington: On December 11, 2023, the US Air Force (USAF) reported that one of its F-16 fighter jets crashed near South Korea during an ongoing training mission over the Yellow Sea. The pilot ejected from the cockpit and landed in the sea after experiencing an in-flight emergency. Colonel Matthew Gatke, the 8th Fight Wing Commander of the US Army, expressed gratitude to the South Korean Maritime Army for rescuing the pilot, who is reported to be in good condition.

This incident follows a similar one in May, where another F-16 fighter jet crashed in Seoul during a training exercise, with the pilot successfully ejecting. Additionally, last month, an American V-22 Osprey tilt rotor helicopter crashed near Japan, resulting in the tragic deaths of eight American soldiers.

The F-16 fighter jet, a trusted aircraft for 48 years, is renowned globally and has been employed by numerous countries. With approximately 4604 units produced, the 49.5 feet long jet can carry 3200 kg of fuel and achieve a maximum speed of 2178 km per hour. Its combat range, with full weapons, is 546 km. Armed with a 20 mm rotary cannon firing 511 rounds per minute, the F-16 can carry a variety of weapons, including air-to-air missiles, bombs, rockets, and more.

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