A plane crash in Maguindanao del Sur has been confirmed to involve a US surveillance aircraft. The plane was conducting military operations for the Philippine government. The crash happened yesterday, and all four people on board died.
The US Indo-Pacific Command said on Friday, February 7, that the victims included one US soldier and three defense contractors. Their names have not been shared yet because their families are still being informed.
The aircraft was on a routine mission to gather intelligence as part of the security cooperation between the US and the Philippines. The cause of the crash is still being investigated, and no further details have been released.
The US Indo-Pacific Command promised to share more information as it becomes available. US forces have often worked in Mindanao to help the Philippine military fight against militant groups.
In November 2024, the Philippines and the US signed an agreement to share military intelligence. This agreement allows the two countries to exchange military secrets but does not force them to share sensitive information.
