What happened
During a period of low-altitude flight, the aircraft was targeted by hostile ground fire. The impact of the incoming rounds occurred while the plane was in its cruising phase. Following the engagement, the pilot managed to execute an emergency descent and successfully landed the aircraft within a rice paddy field.
Despite the damage sustained during the flight, all three crew members were able to exit the aircraft without injury. However, following the touchdown, a fire broke out at the crash site. This post-crash fire continued until the entire airframe was completely destroyed.
Findings
- The aircraft was struck by enemy fire while operating at a low altitude.
- Enemy fire was the primary factor that led to the damage and subsequent emergency landing.