The Republic of China Air Force’s 2nd Squadron pilot, Captain Xie Peixun, was flying a Mirage 2000 single-seat fighter jet during a training exercise on the evening of the 10th when he discovered a power failure and immediately ejected with a parachute. He was rescued by a coast guard vessel, remained conscious, and was taken to the Tongxie Hospital for examination early on the 11th.
Presidential spokesperson Guo Yahui stated on the evening of the 10th that Minister of National Defense Gu Lixiong reported to President Lai Ching-te immediately. The President instructed the military, coast guard, and National Search and Rescue Center to deploy all resources to ensure the safe return of the pilot in the shortest time possible, and requested the public to show support for the pilot.
Republic of China Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Sun Lifang informed the media that “Captain Xie Peixun of the Republic of China Air Force’s 2nd Squadron, flying a Mirage 2000 fighter jet, experienced a power failure during a training exercise on the evening of the 10th. The pilot ejected with a parachute around 8:30 p.m. The Ministry of National Defense immediately launched a rescue operation and located the pilot ejected around 10:20 p.m. The coast guard vessel successfully retrieved the pilot at around 10:40 p.m. Captain Xie Peixun remained conscious and was subsequently taken for further medical checks.”
Taiwan Air Force Command issued a press release at 11:40 p.m. on the 10th, confirming that Captain Xie, the ejected Mirage fighter pilot, had been found and was being transferred by Coast Guard vessel (number 10031) for further medical evaluation at the Tongxie Hospital upon docking at Wuci Fishing Port No. 4 Dock in Taichung.
The Taiwan Air Force Command emphasized the successful completion of the rescue mission and expressed gratitude for the support and assistance from all sectors. A special team will be established by the Command to investigate the cause of the incident in the aftermath.