US Navy Calls Off Search for Missing Sailor

The U.S. Navy has ended its active search for a missing sailor who was aboard a helicopter that crashed in the Arabian Sea. The search concluded early Sunday after extensive efforts began earlier in the week.

According to a statement from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, “This effort was concluded after an extensive search by the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force within the U.S. Central Command area of ​​responsibility.” They also mentioned that the sailor’s name won’t be released until at least 24 hours after their next of kin are informed.

Search Operations

The sailor was part of the 5th Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron stationed on the USS George H.W. Bush. The search operation officially ended at 8 a.m. Eastern Time on Sunday. Over 14,000 square miles were searched for more than 102 hours, as stated by the U.S. 5th Fleet.

Various military resources participated in the search, including aircraft from Carrier Air Wings 7 and 9, helicopter squadrons from both the USS George H.W. Bush and USS Abraham Lincoln, alongside several U.S. Air Force planes.

Additionally, multiple Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers were involved in the operation, such as the USS Ross and USS Donald Cook.

Incident Details

The MH-60S Seahawk helicopter made an emergency splashdown in the Arabian Sea around 3:30 a.m. ET on Wednesday. Fortunately, three of the four crew members were rescued and are reported to be in stable condition aboard the USS George H.W. Bush. Officials noted that there was no indication of hostile activity related to the helicopter’s emergency landing.

As for the cause of the incident, that remains under investigation. It’s always a tough situation in these circumstances, and the focus now is on obtaining answers and supporting those affected.