Two US Navy aircraft experienced separate incidents today during routine operations, as confirmed by officials. The US Navy’s Pacific fleet reported that both aircraft went down on Sunday, October 26, with the first crash occurring at 2:45 p.m. and the second just 30 minutes later at 3:15 p.m.
The US Navy provided additional details on the incidents but has not yet determined the cause of each crash. A spokesperson stated that on October 26, 2025, at approximately 2:45 p.m. local time, a U.S. Navy MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from the “Battle Cats” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73 went down in the waters of the South China Sea while operating from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68).
Furthermore, at 3:15 p.m., an F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter from the “Fighting Redcocks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22 also crashed in the South China Sea during routine operations from the USS Nimitz. Fortunately, all crew members were safely recovered by search and rescue assets assigned to Carrier Strike Group 11, and they are reported to be in stable condition.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the causes of both incidents, with all personnel involved confirmed to be safe.
