US Navy Aircraft and Helicopter Crash in South China Sea
Two US Navy aircraft and a helicopter crashed in separate incidents over the South China Sea, but all crew members were rescued safely.
The incidents occurred during routine missions. An MH-60R Seahawk helicopter crashed into the sea shortly after taking off from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. All three personnel onboard were safely recovered by search and rescue teams.
About 30 minutes later, an F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet, operating from the USS Nimitz, also went down during a routine operation. The US Pacific Fleet confirmed the rescue of all crew members.
No official statement on the cause of the crashes has been released.
The incidents have raised concerns over operational safety.
Author's summary: Crashes occur in South China Sea.