Jet Crash In Libya: From Suffolk Base
22 March 2011, 12:08 | Updated: 22 March 2011, 14:54
It has been confirmed a U.S fighter jet which crashed in Libya during a third night of airstrikes was from the base at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk.
Two crew members ejected from their U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle when the aircraft experienced equipment malfunction over northeast, Libya, on March 21st, at approximately 10:30 p.m. CET.
Both crew members ejected from the aircraft and are safe.
The aircraft, based out of Royal Air Force Lakenheath, in Suffolk was flying out of Aviano Air Base in support of Operation Odyssey Dawn at the time of the incident.
Investigations are now taking place to find out exactly how it happened, although the base have told us the jet was not fired at and that that it crashed because it experienced an equipment malfunction.
The U.S airforce says the identities will be released after the next of kin have been notified.
Coalition forces are in the country trying to help set up a no-fly zone to protect civilians. Last night the Prime Minister got a majority backing from MP's for the missions there, which he says is 'necessary, legal and right' to stop leader Colonol Gadaffi attacking his own people.
Hear From Staff Sergeant Stephen Linch From RAF Lakenheath