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Taiwan’s F-16V crash signals pilot training and fatigue problems, analysts say
- The retrofitted aircraft had new avionics but an ageing body that would need special maintenance, observer says
- Younger pilots also having to ‘step up to take on challenges of advanced jets’
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The crash of one of Taiwan’s most advanced fighter jets during a routine drill on Tuesday points to problems with pilot training and fatigue from responding to repeated sorties by the PLA, analysts said.
The F-16V jet crashed into waters east of Taiwan soon after take-off from Chiayi Air Force Base, according to the island’s air force.
Searchers have recovered some wreckage of the aircraft’s fuselage but the pilot, 28-year-old Captain Chen Yi, is still missing.
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The crash occurred during a drill to simulate a high-speed dive bombing air-to-ground attack, a challenging element of training for less-experienced pilots.
An initial investigation indicated that Chen had switched on the speaker key during the flight, blocking his communication with air command. Some military observers and air force veterans suggested he had mistaken the button as a slow-down key, according to Taiwanese media.
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Taiwan deploys its most advanced F-16V fighter jets amid rising military tensions with Beijing
Taiwan deploys its most advanced F-16V fighter jets amid rising military tensions with Beijing
The F-16V is an upgraded version of the US-made F-16A/B fighter jet and this is the 10th accident since the air force took delivery of 150 of the initial versions in 1997. The air force has grounded the fleet for inspection.
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