Taiwan AT-5 Brave Eagle Jet Crashes After Engine Failure

Taiwan AT-5 Brave Eagle Jet Crashes After Engine Failure

A Taiwan air force AT-5 Brave Eagle advanced jet trainer crashed on Saturday following engine failure. The aircraft’s crew safely ejected and were rescued.

Aircraft Details and Development

The AT-5 Brave Eagle, developed by Taiwan’s state-owned Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC), had its first test flight in 2020. The program was allocated a budget of T$68.6 billion ($2.1 billion).

Crash Circumstances

The jet took off from Chihhang Air Base in Taitung on Taiwan’s east coast. Shortly after, both engines reportedly failed. The crew managed to eject and was safely recovered.

Investigation Underway

The Taiwan air force has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the engine failure. This is the first recorded accident involving the AT-5 since its introduction to service in 2021.

Planned Fleet Expansion

Taiwan aims to acquire 66 AT-5 units by 2026 to replace aging AT-3 and U.S.-made F-5 training aircraft, both of which have experienced multiple crashes in recent years.

Strategic Importance

While Taiwan’s military relies heavily on U.S. equipment, the government is prioritizing domestic defense industry advancements. The AT-5 is the first domestically developed jet since the F-CK-1 Ching-kuo Indigenous Defence Fighter, introduced over 30 years ago.

Capabilities and Future Prospects

The AT-5 is designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground training, with the ability to operate on short runways. It has potential combat capabilities, though its weaponization remains in the testing phase. In wartime, the aircraft is expected to play a supportive role.

The recent crash poses a challenge to Taiwan’s self-sufficiency efforts in defense technology, making the upcoming investigation crucial in ensuring the AT-5’s reliability and future development.

“Taiwan AT-5 Brave Eagle Jet Crashes After Engine Failure” “Taiwan AT-5 Brave Eagle Jet Crashes After Engine Failure”