The recent crash of a Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-16 jet at Tengah Air Base has been attributed to a critical malfunction in the aircraft’s pitch rate gyroscopes, as revealed by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) on May 18. Detailed analysis of the flight data recorder from the wreckage indicated that erroneous inputs were given to the flight control computer, preventing the pilot from controlling the aircraft during take-off.
Technical Breakdown
Pitch rate gyroscopes, which are instrumental in guiding the aircraft’s angular motion about its lateral axis, malfunctioned simultaneously in this instance—a rarity, according to MINDEF. The F-16 jets are typically equipped with four such gyroscopes to ensure redundancy and enhance safety, yet the simultaneous failure led to this unforeseen incident.
Resumption of Flight Operations
Following a thorough investigation and the identification of the faulty component responsible for the crash, MINDEF has declared that the F-16 fleet will resume flying. This decision reflects confidence in the fleet’s overall safety and the isolated nature of the gyroscope malfunction. The resumption is crucial for maintaining the operational readiness of the RSAF’s F-16 squadrons.
Learn about RSAF F-16 Jet Crashes at Tengah Air Base, Pilot Safely Ejects and Hospitalized.
