A Pakistan Air Force Mirage III crashed a few minutes after takeoff from Rafiqui Air Base (OPRQ).
According to the latest reports, the pilot ejected safely and no loss of property was reported.
BREAKING: A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Mirage on a routine training flight has crashed near Shorkot, Pakistan. Pilot was able to eject safely. No loss of life or property reported on the ground per PAF Spokseperson
Board of inquiry formed to ascertain the cause of crash. pic.twitter.com/BoIiYNRDS3— Wars on the Brink ? (@WarsontheBrink) February 7, 2020
The Air Headquarters has formed a committee to investigate the causes behind the crash, Pakistan news website Arynews reports.
Pakistan’s Air Force has been operating Mirage combat jets for the last five decades. Despite the introduction of the JF-17, the force has put the retirement of the Mirage on hold due to the absence of better alternatives.
Over the past five decades, Pakistan has acquired nearly 150 Mirage III/V fighters. The force has previously also bought retired Mirage-III jets from Australia.
