If it was hit by an on guided missile from the other plane, that missile might not necessarily have exploded unless it first traveled the requisite distance to arm.
Still might be a missile impact that damaged a wing.
Agreed.
Two things:
1. Even though the jet was pulling G’s, it’s difficult to believe even poor maintenance is to blame.
2. I can’t help myself, but I am always glad when a pilot survives an event like this, even if he is otherwise a true enemy.