Reports of the crash were received shortly before 1100hrs this morning, Wednesday 11 February 2009.
Two rescue helicopters were scrambled, along with the South Wales Police Air Support Unit. The two rescue helicopters were a Sea King from RAF Chivenor in Devon and the Coast Guard helicopter from Portland. Civilian Police, Fire and Ambulance Services also attended.
Early this evening, RAF spokesman Group Captain Andy Naismith said:
"Four members of the RAF family have tragically lost their lives following an accident which took place near Porthcawl just before lunchtime today. Those who died were two members of the RAF and two Air Training Corps cadets.
"The next of kin have all been informed and the families have requested a period of 24 hours grace before naming takes place to let them absorb and come to terms with this devastating news.
"The aircraft were Grob Tutors - twin-seater, propeller, light aircraft - which were taking part in air experience flights from nearby St Athan.
"A full investigation into this tragic accident is already underway involving the Air Accident Investigation Board, the South Wales Police and the MOD.
"I would like to hereby thank all members of the emergency services for their rapid and caring response and once again ask for the media to exercise restraint at this most difficult time for the families."