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Four pilots have died after two military planes crashed during a training drill in the Philippines.
Footage showed the two SF-260s colliding yesterday around 3.51pm while flying low over Fernando air base, south of the capital Manila.
There were no injuries on the ground and the aircraft crashed within the base's grounds, an air force spokesman said.
The military said the crash was accidental but did not give further details.
It has grounded its entire SF-260 fleet as a precaution while an investigation continues.
In a statement a military spokesman said: 'The Philippine Air Force (PAF) mourns the loss of four pilots in an aviation accident involving two SF-260 aircraft during a training flight at Fernando Air Base on October 23, 2026, at 3.51pm.
'Both aircraft went down within the base perimeter, with no other casualties reported.
'An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident, while all SF-260 aircraft have been temporarily grounded as a precautionary safety measure.'
Four pilots have died after two military planes crashed mid-air in the Phillippines
Footage showed the planes flying alongside at least four others in the moments before the crash
There was a burst of smoke as the planes hit each other in mid-air
Both planes lost altitude quickly after they made contact. The military said four pilots had died in the crash but there were no injuries on the ground
'The PAF honors the service and sacrifice of our fallen aviators and is coordinating with their bereaved families to provide necessary assistance.
'At the families' request, we respectfully appeal to the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time.'
This is a breaking news story.
