Two US Navy aircraft experienced accidents today during routine operations, as confirmed by officials. The incidents occurred on Sunday, October 26, with the first aircraft going down at 2:45 pm followed by the second just 30 minutes later at 3:15 pm, according to the US Navy’s Pacific fleet.
The US Navy provided detailed information on the incidents but has not yet determined the causes of the crashes. 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 at 2:45 pm while carrying out operations from the USS Nimitz (CVN 68). All three crew members were safely recovered by search and rescue teams from Carrier Strike Group 11.
Shortly after, at 3:15 pm, an F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter from the “Fighting Redcocks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22 also crashed into the South China Sea during routine operations from the Nimitz. Both crew members ejected safely and were rescued by search and rescue forces from Carrier Strike Group 11. All individuals involved are safe and in stable condition, with investigations ongoing to determine the cause of the incidents.
