Two US Navy aircraft crashed separately today during routine operations, according to officials. The incidents occurred on Sunday, October 26, with the first crash at 2:45 pm and the second just 30 minutes later at 3:15 pm, as reported by the US Navy’s Pacific fleet. Details of the crashes were provided by the US Navy, but the causes are yet to be confirmed.
A U.S. Navy MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from the “Battle Cats” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73 went down in the South China Sea while operating from the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) at around 2:45 pm. All three crew members were safely recovered by search and rescue assets from Carrier Strike Group 11. Subsequently, at 3:15 pm, an F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter from the “Fighting Redcocks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22 also crashed in the same area. Both crew members ejected safely and were rescued by search and rescue assets.
All personnel involved in the incidents are safe and in stable condition. Investigations are ongoing to determine the causes of the crashes.
