South Korea F-16C Fleet Update
South Korea - Republic of Korea Air Force
| Date | Feb. 25, 2026 |
| Country | South Korea |
| Force | Republic of Korea Air Force |
| Aircraft | F-16C (F-16 Fighting Falcon) |
| Change | -1 active |
Description
A Republic of Korea Air Force F-16C crashed in mountainous terrain near Yeongju, North Gyeongsang province, during nighttime aerial training at 19:31 on February 25. The solo pilot successfully ejected and was found approximately 40 minutes later suspended about 65 feet high in a tree by his parachute, sustaining no injuries. The aircraft was assigned to the ROKAF's Chungju Base. No civilian damage was reported. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back ordered a thorough investigation led by the vice chief of staff to determine the cause of the accident.