What happened
The aircraft departed Rivers AFB on a routine training mission. During the exercise, meteorological conditions worsened rapidly due to an unexpected storm system. Faced with heavy rain and active lightning, the crew elected to abort the mission and return to base. However, visibility and safety margins were insufficient for a controlled approach to the airfield.
The pilot executed an emergency landing in a field situated 10 km southwest of Basswood. The aircraft made contact with the ground on its underside, resulting in a belly landing. The impact caused structural damage that rendered the airframe beyond repair. All four crew members evacuated the wreckage and were reported to be uninjured.
Findings
The incident was precipitated by sudden weather deterioration during a training sortie. The presence of heavy precipitation and lightning prevented a safe return to the scheduled base, necessitating an off-airfield landing. Despite the total loss of the aircraft, the crew successfully escaped without sustaining injuries.