Aircraft Lost After Cannon Fire During Pacific Ocean Simulation (39334)

Incident Overview and Context The incident occurred while the crew was conducting a simulated aerial attack over the Pacific Ocean. The aircraft was operating at a low altitude during the exercise when the crew employed a 20 mm cannon for gunnery practice. ## Damage and Emergency Response Several bullets struck the water and ricocheted, impacting the engine nacelle. The damage necessitated an emergency landing, which was completed approximately 200 miles southwest of Cape Flattery, Washington State. ## Outcome All crew members were successfully rescued following the emergency landing. Despite the safe recovery of the personnel, the aircraft was lost.