SOUTH CHINA SEA — Two U.S. Navy aircraft crashed into the South China Sea in separate incidents on Sunday, prompting swift rescue operations that safely recovered all crew members involved.
The first crash occurred around 2:45 p.m. local time when an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 73, known as the “Battle Cats,” went down during routine operations from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. All three crew members were rescued and are in stable condition.
Approximately 30 minutes later, a Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet also crashed while conducting flight operations from the same carrier. Both pilots ejected safely and were recovered shortly after.
The U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet confirmed that all personnel involved are safe and that investigations into the cause of both incidents are underway. The USS Nimitz, a 50-year-old carrier, had recently returned from deployment in the Middle East.
Chinese officials responded by criticizing the frequency of U.S. military flights in the region, calling them a threat to maritime stability. “The U.S. is flexing its muscles by sending military aircraft into the South China Sea frequently,” said a Foreign Ministry spokesman. “This serves as a root cause for sabotaging regional peace.”
Despite the political tension, China stated it would offer humanitarian assistance if requested.
U.S. defense officials downplayed the geopolitical implications, emphasizing that the crashes were unrelated and purely operational. “These were unfortunate mechanical failures, not provocations,” said a Pentagon spokesperson. “Our focus is on the safety of our personnel and maintaining transparency in our operations.”
Military analysts, however, warned that the incidents could heighten tensions in an already volatile region. “Any accident involving U.S. assets in contested waters is bound to attract scrutiny,” said one Asia-Pacific security expert. “It underscores the risks of operating in high-stakes environments.”
Regional observers in Southeast Asia expressed concern over the growing militarization of the South China Sea. “This is a reminder that the region remains a flashpoint,” said a senior diplomat from the Philippines. “We urge restraint and dialogue from all parties.”
No injuries were reported, and both aircraft have been declared lost. The U.S. Navy has launched formal inquiries into the mechanical and operational circumstances surrounding the crashes.
