The Greek F-16 fighter jet that crashed during a NATO training exercise in central Spain, 260 kilometers (160 miles) south-east of Madrid, killed two Greek pilots and nine French nationals after it nosedived and exploded. The Greek Defense Ministry said that the accident was the result of fuel retention in the engine however it is also being investigated as to whether the Greek pilot took a wrong maneuver at take off, 3.30 p.m. local time. The copilot reportedly tried to use his parachute but was killed by the impact nonetheless.

Eyewitnesses said that they heard four explosions after the plane crashed to the crowd. A column of smoke filled the air with a massive amount of heat rising from the wreckage. Five other planes were hit during the accident.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the tragedy “affects the whole NATO family” and he expressed his condolences to the loved ones and nations of those who lost their lives. He also expressed speedy recovery to the 21 injured – 11 French and 10 Italian nationals, seven of which are in a critical condition.  Earlier reports had referred to one amputation. Only a short while ago, French newspaper “Le Monde” reported that another French national had passed from his grievous wounds, in hospital.

French Defence Minister Jean-Yves le Drian is in the area on Tuesday. Reports say that many of the people injured are French or Italian. The airbase, an advanced air training center, has personnel from the US, Denmark, Germany, Belgium and the UK also stationed there. According to sources, the Chief of Hellenic Aviation will arrive in an area with a C130 to further investigate the accident.

According to El Pais:

1. The Greek F-16 was taking part in an exercise with two pilots

2. Began takeoff at 3.30 p.m.

3. There was fuel “retention” in the engine for unknown reasons

4. The aircraft swerved to the right, lost altitude and crashed into other aircraft getting ready to take off

Greece’s new Prime Minister is being informed of the situation and spoke with the current Defence Minsiter Nikos Dendias asking to be kept abreast of the situation. In a statement, Mr. Dendias said:

“We woule like to express our sorrow and pain for the tragic consequences of the crash of the aircraft of the Hellenic Aviation during an exercise with our friend and ally, Spain. At this time, our thoughts are with the families of the Greek officers as well as with the families of the victims, regardless of nationality.”