US Forces Korea stated that one of its F-16 fighter jets had crashed in the waters off Korea’s western coast on Monday.

At approximately 8:43 am on Monday, a pilot belonging to the 8th Fighter Wing experienced an in-flight emergency while piloting an F-16 fighter jet, causing him to eject before his plane crashed into the waters of the Yellow Sea.

The incident occurred shortly after the pilot took off from Kunsan Air Base for a routine training exercise. The pilot was recovered by the South Korean Navy and Coast Guard and returned to Gunsan.

“We are grateful for the safe recovery of our airman by our ROK Allies and that the pilot is in good condition,” said Col. Matthew Gaetke, the commander of the 8th Fighter Wing.

USFK said that the pilot was awake and in stable condition.

A press release stated that the cause of the in-flight emergency was unknown and a thorough investigation will be carried out. No further details are to be released until the conclusion of the investigation.

By Kwon Hyuk-chul, staff reporter

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