F-16 fighter jet sprayed toxic chemicals, 6 American technicians hospitalized

Six technicians from the 177th Fighter Wing of the US Air National Guard, New Jersey state were hospitalized due to exposure to a toxic chemical leaked from an F-16.

Pilots perform maintenance on an F-16. Photo: US Airforce

The incident occurred on August 25 at Egg Harbor Township Airport, New Jersey, when technicians were repairing the emergency power supply of an F-16 fighter jet, according to AP.

This device provides power and hydraulics to the F-16 aircraft in the event of engine failure.

Sergeant Andrew Moseley said 6technicianmay be contaminated with hydrazine, a toxic, corrosive chemical that can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. This substance can seriously affect the victim's liver and kidneys if exposed to a large amount of water.

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a multirole fighter aircraft developed by General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin for the United States Air Force in the mid-1970s.

Designed as a light fighter, the F-16 has become a successful multi-role fighter, exported to 24 countries with more than 4,500 built.

According to VNE