Fatal Incident Raises Concerns
In a tragic incident off the Japanese island of Yakushima, a US Osprey military aircraft crashed, resulting in the death of one crew member and leaving five others unaccounted for, according to the coastguard. Initially believed to have eight crew members, the coastguard revised the number to six. The crash adds to a troubling history of incidents involving the tilt-rotor military aircraft.
Confirmation of Casualty
One individual, initially found unconscious in the sea near the crash site, was later confirmed dead in the hospital, the coastguard reported. The US military, with approximately 54,000 personnel in Japan, has yet to release a public statement regarding the crash. Emergency management officials in the Kagoshima region received reports of the aircraft “spewing fire from a left engine,” adding to concerns surrounding the incident.
Response and Mobilization
The coastguard has deployed patrol ships and aircraft around Yakushima for search and rescue efforts. The Osprey was reportedly en route from the Iwakuni US base near Hiroshima to the Kadena base in Okinawa. Japanese broadcaster NHK identified the aircraft as a CV-22 Osprey from the US Yokota air base in Tokyo. Government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno assured that Japan is actively assessing the situation, prioritizing human life, and collaborating with relevant authorities.
Troubled History of the Osprey
The Boeing MV-22B Osprey, capable of operating as a helicopter or fixed-wing plane, has faced multiple fatal crashes over the years. Notably, a crash in northern Australia in August claimed the lives of three US marines. The Osprey’s history includes incidents in Norway, Australia, Okinawa, and Arizona, raising concerns about its safety and reliability.
Ongoing Concerns and Government Response
The recent crash prompts renewed concerns about the Osprey’s safety, with critics questioning its continued use. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida indicated that the government would evaluate the situation before considering any immediate requests to ground Ospreys, emphasizing the need to understand the facts surrounding the incident. The tragedy underscores the challenges associated with military aircraft operations and the ongoing efforts to ensure their safety.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Vanguard News
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