Australian Military Grounds Taipan Helicopters after Crash Throughout Talisman Sabre Train

Australia’s navy will floor its fleet of MRH-90 Taipan helicopters after a crash throughout multinational navy workout routines that left 4 crew members lacking, the military chief mentioned on Sunday.

The helicopter crashed into waters close to the Whitsunday Islands off Australia’s subtropical northeast late on Friday, sparking a search by the militaries of three nations, however hopes of discovering the lacking crew have been fading.

Lieutenant Basic Simon Stuart, the chief of the Australian Military, mentioned on Sunday that Australia would floor its fleet of about 45 Taipan helicopters.

“We’re not flying the MRH-90 immediately and gained’t till we predict it’s secure to take action,” Stuart informed reporters in Sydney.

Even earlier than the incident, Canberra had introduced it might exchange its ageing Taipan helicopters with US-made Black Hawks.

Australian officers have complained about having to repeatedly floor the European-made Taipans, citing difficulties with upkeep and getting spare elements.

Stuart mentioned the present purpose was to maintain the Taipans in service till 2024 however “what occurs between every now and then, from what we be taught from this incident, is but to be decided”.

Australia’s Taipan fleet was grounded for a month after one of many helicopters suffered engine failure throughout a nighttime coaching train in March, forcing the crew to ditch into the ocean. Nobody was severely harm.

The plane that crashed on Friday evening was collaborating within the Talisman Sabre train, which brings collectively 30,000 navy personnel from Australia, the US and a number of other different nations.

Specialist divers have joined the hundreds-strong seek for the lacking pilot and three different crew, officers mentioned.

Particles from the crash was recovered on Saturday, with Channel 9 tv footage displaying a bit of the fuselage being lifted from the water.

Stuart recognized the 4 lacking crew and mentioned they have been all from the sixth Aviation Regiment, based mostly in Sydney.

“It’s a must to really feel for his or her households and their mates,” he mentioned.

New South Wales Premier Christopher Minns informed Sky Information one of many lacking crew was the son of a distinguished senior police officer.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the crash as a stark reminder “that there are not any secure or simple days for many who serve in our nation’s title”.

He additionally thanked navy personnel from different international locations for collaborating within the search.

US Protection Secretary Lloyd Austin, talking within the northern metropolis of Townsville, mentioned the US would offer any help it may.

“Our hearts exit to their family members throughout this terribly troublesome time,” Austin mentioned of the lacking crew.

The Talisman Sabre train was paused briefly on Saturday however some operations then resumed away from the crash web site.