The remains of a U.S. Navy fighter jet that crashed near Mount Rainier in Washington have been discovered, and the search continues for two missing crew members.
The dismembered EA-18G Growler was found on a mountainside in a “remote location inaccessible by motorized vehicles” around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Navy officials said.
The Navy Electronic Attack Squadron's $67 million jet crashed during a “routine training flight” east of Mount Rainier around 3:23 p.m. Tuesday, but the cause is still under investigation, officials said.
Two crew members were still missing as of Thursday morning, despite extensive search efforts in rainy weather, including the deployment of a U.S. Navy MH-60S helicopter.
The Navy said it was unclear whether the two crew members were able to escape before the crash.
The Navy and local agencies have arrived at the crash site and plan to deploy crews to secure the scene. Snow is expected to fall in the Cascades through the weekend.
“We are grateful for the outstanding teamwork displayed by NAS Whidbey Island Squadron as the Whidbey team continues to respond to tragic incidents,” said Col. David Ganshi, Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, Pacific Fleet, in a statement. ” he said.
“We are also grateful to local law enforcement, response personnel, and tribal communities whose partnerships were essential in planning important next steps toward accessing the scene,” he added. Ta.
The Growler jets are part of the “Zappers,” also known as Electronic Attack Squadron 130 or VAQ-130. Most squadrons are based on Whidbey Island, and another squadron is based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan.
The “Zapper” was recently deployed aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.
The Growlers cost $67 million each and have been operating around the world in support of large-scale military operations for the past 15 years, according to the Navy.
“The EA-18G Growler aircraft we fly represent the most advanced technology in airborne electronic attack and serve as the Navy's first line of defense in hostile environments,” the Navy said. on the website.
The plane is operated by a pilot who sits in the front and an electronics operator who sits directly behind him.
with post wire
