Fighter jets collide over France

Search is underway for an instructor and a trainee from one of the lost aircraft, media has reported

Two French fighter jets have collided over the northeastern part of the country. The incident in Meurthe-et-Moselle department involved two Rafale aircraft and occurred around midday on Wednesday, Agence France Presse reported, citing civilian and military officials.

Both aircraft belong to the squadron stationed at the Saint-Dizier-Robinson Air Base, the army has told the press. The pilot from one jet was injured in the incident and is alive and conscious.

The second aircraft had an instructor and a trainee aboard, who remain unaccounted for. All three officers are French nationals and not foreigners, the military stressed.

Local media say a search-and-rescue operation is underway in the area. The location was cordoned off, while fire brigades were dispatched to the scene. Rescue workers said they have discovered plenty of debris from the incident.

Earlier reports suggested that the lost aircraft may have been Mirage jets rather than Rafales.