Helicopter Crash Update
U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that the two crew members aboard the U.S. Army Apache helicopter that went down near the Strait of Hormuz are unharmed and “fine.”
The incident involved an AH-64 Apache gunship, known for its capability to patrol waterways and engage small vessels. The helicopter was reported missing on Monday, but the reason for the crash remains unclear.
While on Air Force One, Trump provided a brief update, reassuring the public that, “The pilot is fine… there are no injuries. We will release a report tomorrow, but the pilot is fine.”
UPDATE 0700 ET — CENTCOM statement
After the President’s remarks, U.S. Central Command released their report, confirming that the two crew members were rescued on Monday night at 19:33 ET after the helicopter crashed off the coast of Oman while conducting patrols in regional waters.
The report indicated that the crew members were “safely evacuated” two hours following the crash and are currently in stable condition. An investigation into the accident is underway.
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In addition to the helicopter update, Trump spoke about ongoing negotiations with Israel and Iran. He mentioned that a ceasefire had recently broken down, leading to military strikes. “We’re still negotiating inside Iran and with Iran, and it’s not done yet. We’ll have an idea at least within a day or two from now. I think we’re on track,” he said. He added that the blockade is still in effect but noted that progress is being made.
Trump also touched upon the recent tensions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “So they’re going to leave each other alone for another week or so… They’ve agreed to stop through me, and we’re in the final quagmire of a very good agreement that doesn’t allow nuclear weapons in any way shape or form.”
The AH-64 Apache, which was lost in the Strait, is a Cold War-era attack helicopter designed primarily to counter Soviet tanks. It is typically armed with autocannons and Hellfire missiles, and it has recently integrated the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS). This new system enhances its effectiveness against fast, unarmored targets, like drones or agile fast boats.
In a world where modern warfare can juxtapose high-value assets with less costly options, the APKWS aims to address the challenges presented by such dynamics on the battlefield.
