The Aircraft Was On A Routine Training Mission

A US Air Force F-15C Eagle crashed at approximately 0940 Monday in the North Sea. The aircraft was from the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was on a routine training mission with one pilot on board.

The British Coastguard coordinated the initial search after RAF Lakenheath F-15C went into the sea 74NM off Flamborough Head, Yorkshire. Humberside based HM Coastguard helicopters working with other aircraft in the area, and RNLI lifeboats from Bridlington and Scarborough assisted with the search along with other vessels.

Subsequently, the pilot of the downed F-15C Eagle from the 48th Fighter Wing was located, and confirmed deceased. The name of the pilot will not be released until all next of kin notifications have been made.

A USAF spokesperson noted that, "This is a tragic loss for the 48th Fighter Wing community, and our deepest condolences go out to the pilot’s family and the 493rd Fighter Squadron."

The F-15C Eagle employs advanced technology including the AIM-9X munitions and the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System providing the most advanced technology, capable of eliminating enemy air threats anytime, anywhere. When teamed together, the F-15E and F-15C provide air combat capability never before seen in the history of airpower.

As the U.S. Air Forces in Europe's only F-15 fighter wing, RAF Lakenheath brings unique air combat capabilities to the fight. RAF Lakenheath provides all-weather, day or night air superiority and air-to-ground precision combat capability and multi-staged improvement program avionics.

FMI: https://www.lakenheath.af.mil/