Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-2 fighter jet — January 2023, JASDF Hyakuri Air Base, Ibaraki Prefecture.
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At around 12:35 PM on August 7, an F-2 fighter jet from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's (JASDF) Hyakuri Air Base crashed during a training exercise over the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ibaraki Prefecture. The base is located in Omigawa City, Ibaraki.
The pilot made an emergency ejection and was rescued. He is in stable condition, though it is still unclear what prompted the ejection or if he was injured.
According to the Ministry of Defense, a UH-60J helicopter from the JASDF's Hyakuri Rescue Unit recovered the pilot and transported him to a hospital. No damage to ships or other vessels has been reported.
The F-2 Fighter Jet
The F-2 is a multirole fighter developed jointly by Japan and the United States, based on the American F-16 platform. Its strengths include anti-ship, ground attack, and air-to-air combat capabilities. Built with Japan's advanced carbon fiber composite technology, the F-2 features a lightweight, seamless airframe.
Prior to the introduction of the F-35 stealth fighter, the F-2 served as a key aircraft for the defense of Japan's remote islands.
On June 24, Philippine Air Force Commander Lt Gen Arthur Cordura expressed interest in acquiring retired Mitsubishi-made fighter jets from Japan, likely referring to the F-2. No formal negotiations have begun.
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Author: The Sankei Shimbun
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