Misfortune has struck the Royal Thai Air Force during it’s joint Thai-U.S. led, multinational exercise known as Cobra Gold. This morning a RTAF F-16 from 1 Wing crashed, sadly killing the pilot, Lieutenant Noppanon Niwasanon. The crash occurred at 2:40 PM in the Chai Badan district.
According to Air Vice Marshall Monthon Satchukorn, spokesman for the Royal Thai Air Force, Lt. Niwasanon was participating in a missile firing training flight when the mishap occurred.
In 2011, a pair of 1 Wing Vipers, participating in the same exercise, crashed in Chaiyaphum province. Both pilots in that incident were able to eject and escaped with only minor injuries.
The cause of the current incident is under investigation.
Tail section of the crashed 1 Wing RTAF F-16. (©Chiang Rai Times)
On behalf of the entire FighterSweep and Force12 Media family, we extend our condolences to Lt. Niwasanon’s family, friends, and fellow warriors.
Here’s a nickel on the grass…