This aircraft was one of the few OV-10C Broncos still in service with the PAF.
A Philippine Air Force (PAF) OV-10C tail number 402 has crashed on May 24.
As reported by GMA Network, according to PAF spokesman Major Aristedes Galang, OV-10C aircraft #402 encountered a mishap while turning crosswind for landing on runway 25 of Sangley Point Airport during the scheduled proficiency flight on Friday.
Noteworthy this aircraft was one of the few OV-10C Broncos still in service with the PAF.
The two pilots identified as 1st Lt. Uriel Pangket and 1st Lt. Razelle Cerdenia were safely ejected and were recovered by local fishermen 2.5 kilometers from the shoreline of Rosario, Cavite.
Galang said the pilots, who were brought to a hospital in Sangley Point, are both fine except for some bruises, contusions and soarness of muscles.
Galang added that security elements were dispatched to secure the aircraft and recovery efforts are ongoing.
At the same time, an investigation team has been activated to conduct a thorough investigation of the mishap.
The OV-10 was a twin-turboprop short takeoff and landing aircraft conceived by the U.S. Marine Corps and developed under a U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps tri-service program. The first production OV-10A was ordered in 1966, and its initial flight took place in August 1967.
The Bronco’s missions included observation, forward air control, helicopter escort, armed reconnaissance, gunfire spotting, utility and limited ground attack. The USAF acquired the Bronco primarily as a forward air control aircraft. Adding to its versatility is a rear fuselage compartment with a capacity of 3,200 pounds of cargo, five combat-equipped troops or two litter patients and a medical attendant.
Photo credit: Philippine Air Force
