France: Accident with two military jets - two pilots missing

Two Rafale fighter jets collided mid-air near Colombey-les-Belles, resulting in the disappearance of two pilots. One pilot was rescued, while the search for the missing student pilot and instructor continues.

French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed the rescued pilot's safety and expressed condolences. President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the tragic accident and initiated an investigation into the cause of the collision.

The incident occurred during a training mission, leading to the death of Captain Sebastien Mabire and Lieutenant Matthis Laurens. The regional SATER program was activated for search and rescue operations.

The Rafale jets belong to the Rafale 3/4 Aquitaine conversion unit, responsible for training pilots on the versatile multirole fighter aircraft. The incident highlights the inherent risks involved in military aviation and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women in the line of duty.