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Pohang, South Korea: A South Korean Navy P-3 maritime patrol aircraft crashed during a routine training flight near Pohang on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of all four crew members on board. The aircraft took off from its base in the southeastern city of Pohang at 1:43 p.m. local time and crashed approximately six minutes later into a mountainous area near a residential complex.
The P-3 patrol plane, a key asset in South Korea’s maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare operations, was conducting a standard training exercise when it went down for reasons yet to be determined. The crash site, located on a hill near an apartment complex, ignited a fire, prompting an immediate response from emergency services, including firefighters and rescue teams.
Picture Credits: (Lee Mu-yeul/Newsis via AP)
According to the South Korean Navy, four crew members have been confirmed dead. There have been no reported civilian casualties resulting from the crash.
In the wake of the incident, the South Korean Navy has grounded all P-3 aircraft as a precautionary measure and has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. A task force has been established to oversee the investigation and ensure the safety of ongoing naval operations.
Picture Credits: (AP: Son Dae-seong / Yonhap)
The P-3 Orion has been a cornerstone of South Korea’s maritime patrol capabilities since its deployment in 1995. Known for its long-range surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, the aircraft plays a critical role in monitoring regional waters, particularly in light of North Korea’s advancing submarine technology. The South Korean Navy has been in the process of modernizing its fleet, with the introduction of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft expected to enhance its maritime patrol operations.
Acting President Lee Ju-ho has been briefed on the incident and has called for comprehensive efforts to investigate the crash and prevent further damage to the surrounding environment. The South Korean Navy has expressed its condolences to the families of the deceased and has pledged full support for the ongoing investigation.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available from official sources.
