What happened
During the early stages of flight departing from Iwakadamente Air Force Base, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical failure. While the plane was ascending to an altitude of approximately 300 feet, the left engine ignited, resulting in an onboard fire.
As the fire progressed, the crew was unable to maintain control of the vessel. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ocean surface at a distance of roughly 1,500 meters from the coastline. The impact and subsequent sinking of the plane resulted in two injuries among the flight crew. The aircraft remains submerged and is considered a total loss.
Findings
Investigations into the incident determined that the primary factor was an engine fire occurring on the port side immediately following takeoff.