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A tragic incident has claimed the life of Major Salvatore Carpitano, an Italian Air Force F-35 pilot instructor, following a car accident near Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, USA. Major Carpitano was stationed at the base as part of the Italian Air Force’s training program.
The Incident in Arizona
Major Carpitano was serving with the Italian Air Force’s Reparto di Addestramento Volo italia (RAMI), the Italian Air Force training Detachment, at Luke Air Force Base. Initial reports suggest the accident occurred after a day of work. The circumstances surrounding the accident are still under investigation by local authorities.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed the news, expressing his deep sadness. “With profound sadness I learned of the passing of Major Salvatore carpitano of the Air Force, who died consequently of a tragic road accident near Luke Air Base (United States) where he was serving as a flight instructor with the Italian Air Force Training Detachment (RAMI). On my own behalf and on behalf of the entire Defence, I express my deepest condolences to his family, to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Air squad General Antonio Conserva, and to all the colleagues of the Azzurra Arm,” according to the Italian Ministry of Defence.
Subsecretary Matteo Perego di Cremnago also extended his condolences, expressing “deep sorrow and closeness to the family and loved ones of the Air Force Major.” He also offered his condolences to the entire Italian Air Force and Chief of Staff General Antonio Conserva.
Major Carpitano was an instructor pilot with the 156th Test Squadron,flying F-35 aircraft. Luke Air Force Base is a key international training center for F-35 pilots as part of the Joint Strike Fighter program, making his role highly significant.