Four air crew members were missing after an Australian army helicopter ditched into waters off the Queensland state coast during joint military exercises with the United States.

Talisman Sabre Exercise Director, Brigadier Damian Hill, addressed journalists and revealed further details about the crash. He stated that the accident occurred at approximately 11:00 p.m. on Friday, July 28. The second MRH-90 Taipan, which was flying with the impacted aircraft, immediately initiated a search and rescue operation.

Despite the prompt response, the four crew members on board the downed helicopter have not been located, leaving their families and fellow service members anxious and grief-stricken. The families of the missing personnel have been informed of the situation, and authorities are ensuring they receive the necessary support during this difficult time.

Brigadier Damian Hill emphasized that the welfare of the affected families, as well as the search and rescue teams, is of paramount importance to the Defense Department. The collaborative effort with local emergency services will continue in hopes of locating the missing crew members.

An aircraft accident investigation team is set to arrive this afternoon to commence an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The investigation aims to shed light on the cause of the tragic incident and prevent similar accidents in the future. (ILKHA)