TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A T-5 Brave Eagle trainer aircraft crashed off the coast of Dulan, Taitung, on Saturday morning.

The pilot ejected from the aircraft and nearby fishing boats quickly arrived to assist in the rescue. The Air Force Command confirmed the pilot was rescued and safe, per CNA.

The aircraft, part of the Air Force’s training fleet, took off at 8:40 a.m. but both its engines failed shortly afterward. The military initiated a search-and-rescue mission, with personnel from the National Airborne Service Corps and the Coast Guard Administration swiftly responding.

Following the incident, the Air Force set up an investigation team to determine the cause of the crash. This marks the first accident involving the T-5 Brave Eagle since its deployment.

Designed as both an advanced trainer and a light attack aircraft, the Brave Eagle made its first successful flight in 2019. It entered production in 2020, according to Ettoday.

The aircraft will gradually replace the current trainer fleet, offering advanced design, materials, and avionics, including a digital cockpit and two F124 turbofan engines. In addition to its role as an advanced trainer, the Brave Eagle has light attack capabilities, allowing it to perform ground attack missions and carry various munitions.