Search and rescue operations have been launched for U.S. Marine aircraft involved in what military officials have termed a “mishap.”
The two aircraft — a KC-130 refueling tanker and an F/A-18 fighter jet — took off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan as part of standard training, but they were involved in the mishap off the coast of Japan at approximately 2 a.m., according to the Marine Corps. The Marine Corps also said that Japanese search and rescue aircraft immediately tended to the situation and the recovery efforts.
At least one of the personnel has been recovered and is undergoing a medical examination at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, but the other six Marines have not yet been accounted for, the Marine Corps said.
“We are thankful for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s efforts as they immediately responded in the search and rescue operation,” the Marine Corps said in a statement.
The situation is currently being investigated, and no other information is currently available.
The commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni is Col. Richard Fuerst.
