YONGSAN GARRISON, SEOUL, Republic of Korea – Six Republic of Korea (ROK) KF-16 fighter aircraft were diverted to Yokota Air Base, Japan, due to a mechanical issue with an air-to-air refueler scheduled to support their movement June 1, 2017.

The aircraft were en route to Alaska to participate in Exercise Red Flag 2017 when they diverted to the U.S. Air Base in Japan. Under the International Civil Aviation Organization, the fighter aircraft requested and were granted clearance to land at Yokota Air Base. After the mechanical issue was repaired, all six aircraft continued their mission to Alaska and are now participating in the scheduled exercise.

"While completely unexpected, this event was a great example of practical military cooperation among the Republic of Korea, the United States and Japan. I am pleased that the situation resolved safely and effectively. We look forward to the KF16's returning to Korea after receiving excellent combat training in Alaska," said Gen. Vincent K. Brooks, commander of U.S. Forces Korea and the ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command.

Exercise Red Flag (Alaska) is a Pacific Air Forces field training exercise designed to integrate airpower and practice joint offensive counter-air, interdiction, and close air support in a simulated combat environment.