Tragedy struck as a Bangladesh Air Force Yak-130 jet trainer crashed in Patenga, Chittagong, resulting in the loss of Squadron Leader Asim Jawad’s life. Despite undergoing treatment at BNS Issa Khan Hospital, Jawad succumbed to his injuries around 12:30 pm.
The crash, attributed to a mechanical fault, occurred around 10:30 am, leading to the unfortunate demise of Jawad, a resident of Chittagong. Deputy Police Commissioner Shakila Soltana confirmed the incident, while Officer-in-Charge Ekram Ullah noted that Wing Commander Soham and Pilot Ashim ejected with parachutes, with Ashim’s condition reported as critical.
Eyewitnesses reported the aircraft catching fire over the Patenga Navy Boat Club before crashing into the sea. Responders from the Fire Service and Civil Defence, Bangladesh Navy, and Bangladesh Coast Guard swiftly mobilized to the scene.
The Yakovlev Yak-130, manufactured by Russia’s Irkut Corporation, serves as a subsonic two-seat advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft. Its introduction to Bangladesh dates back to 2015, highlighting the nation’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air force capabilities.
