After Accidental Bomb Drop in March,
Another Abnormal Jettisoning Incident This Month
The military will conduct an on-site inspection of the Air Force following recent incidents involving accidental bomb drops and abnormal jettisoning accidents.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff announced that, beginning April 29, the Combat Readiness Inspection Office will lead an on-site inspection of Air Force units, focusing on operational discipline and readiness posture.
The Air Force has recently faced criticism over a series of incidents and accidents, raising concerns about a breakdown in military discipline. On March 6, two KF-16 fighter jets accidentally dropped eight MK-82 bombs during training in the Pocheon area of Gyeonggi Province. The incident resulted in 38 injuries, including two civilians who were seriously wounded, and caused significant property damage to civilian homes and other structures. The cause of the accident was identified as the pilots' incorrect input of target coordinates.
Just over a month later, on April 18, an Air Force KA-1 aircraft accidentally released two underwing pods and two empty fuel tanks during training. At the time, the underwing pods also contained machine guns and 500 rounds of 12.7mm live ammunition, which were dropped as well. The cause of this accident was found to be a mistake by the rear-seat pilot, who inadvertently activated the emergency jettison button while attempting to operate the aircraft's air vent.
In response to the series of accidents, the Air Force has been implementing a "100-Day Pledge for Flight Safety and Trust Restoration" project since April 22, which includes measures to enhance safety.
A Joint Chiefs of Staff official stated, "This inspection is intended to review the operational discipline and readiness posture of Air Force units," adding, "The recent series of incidents and accidents may also be included as part of the operational discipline review."
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