Eielson Air Force Base: A South Korean KF-16 fighter jet participating in the U.S.-led multinational Red Flag air exercise in Alaska experienced an emergency situation leading to damage during takeoff. The South Korean Air Force confirmed the safety of the pilots, who ejected from the aircraft at approximately 4 p.m. Tuesday (U.S. time).

According to Yonhap News Agency, the two pilots managed to safely eject from the double-seat fighter and were subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. The South Korean Air Force has released a notice affirming their safety following the incident.

In a statement provided by the U.S. 354th Fighter Wing, the location of the incident was confirmed to be within the perimeter of Eielson Air Force Base. Emergency response crews were promptly dispatched to the scene to address the situation. Collaborative efforts between the South Korean Air Force and the U.S. military are underway to ascertain the exact cause of the incident.

The Red Flag-Alaska exercise, which commenced in 1975, is aimed at offering realistic training in a simulated combat setting. South Korea has been participating in this exercise since 2013. This year, the South Korean Air Force has deployed 11 aircraft, including the KF-16 fighter and the KC-330 transport plane, along with approximately 100 airmen, to the exercise.