Two SH60K patrol helicopters of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force lost communication during night training in the waters near the Izu Islands on Saturday night, and the crash was finally confirmed. As a result of the accident, one person was killed and seven people were missing, and the search and rescue operation is still in full swing.
According to NHK, at around 22:38 local time on Saturday night, the first SH60K helicopter suddenly lost communication while on a training mission. About a minute later, the Self-Defense Forces received an emergency signal from the aircraft, but then the helicopter lost contact with the command. Immediately afterward, about 25 minutes later, at around 23:04, another helicopter of the same type also lost communication in the same area.
The two helicopters each carried four crew members, for a total of eight people. Immediately after the accident, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force launched an emergency search and rescue procedure, carrying out search and rescue operations in the relevant sea area through frigates and aircraft. Unfortunately, despite the swift action of search and rescue personnel, one of the rescued crew members died of their injuries, and the whereabouts of the remaining seven remain unknown.
Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara quickly held an emergency press conference after the accident to report on the latest developments of the accident. He said that at present, it is preliminarily judged that the two helicopters have crashed, but the specific cause is still under further investigation. He also stressed that the Maritime Self-Defense Force is making all-out efforts to carry out search and rescue in the hope that the missing crew members can be found as soon as possible.
It is worth mentioning that both wrecked helicopters belong to the important equipment of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the SH60K patrol helicopter is distinguished by its excellent anti-submarine capabilities. However, the occurrence of this accident is undoubtedly a wake-up call for the safety of the training and equipment of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
At present, the specific cause of the accident is still under investigation. Some experts point out that accidents may be caused by a variety of factors, such as mechanical failure, human error, or weather conditions. But whatever the cause, this accident is yet another reminder that aviation safety is no small matter and that vigilance must be maintained at all times to ensure a safe return from every flight.
Here, we would like to express our deep condolences to the crew members who died in this accident and express our sincere condolences to the missing crew members and their families. At the same time, we hope that the search and rescue operation will make progress as soon as possible, and that the missing crew members will be located and bring some comfort to them and their families.
As the search and rescue work continues, we will continue to pay attention to the follow-up reports of this accident, hoping to uncover the truth behind the accident as soon as possible and provide valuable lessons for future aviation safety.
For the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, the accident was undoubtedly a heavy blow. However, we believe that with the joint efforts of all personnel, they will be able to overcome difficulties, rebuild confidence, and continue to contribute to safeguarding the country's maritime security.
Finally, we would like to reiterate our high respect and heartfelt thanks to all those involved in the search and rescue operation. Their bravery and tenacity are our strong backing in the face of difficulties, and they are also an important force for us to protect peace and tranquility together.