Overview

• An ASDF F-2 fighter plunged into the Pacific on August 7 during a routine exercise about 150 km northeast of Hyakuri Air Base, and the pilot ejected safely.
• The pilot, a first lieutenant in his 30s with roughly 1,000 flight hours, was rescued by helicopter and remains hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
• All non-essential F-2 training flights have been suspended pending the outcome of safety inspections and the investigation.
• The Air Staff Office has established an accident investigation committee while recovery teams coordinate salvage of the wreckage.
• No damage to nearby ships or facilities has been reported and the crash has intensified scrutiny of ASDF maintenance and safety protocols.