A U.S. V-22 Osprey, flying near the Japanese island of Yakushima, crashed into the ocean, resulting in tragedy. Initial reports indicated eight individuals were on board, but the Japanese Coast Guard later corrected the number to six. The Coast Guard confirmed at least one crew member died in the incident. The individual was found unconscious and not breathing in the ocean, and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The status of the remaining crew members was unknown at the time of reporting.
US Military Aircraft with 6 On Board Goes Down in Asia
November 29, 2023 at 8:27amhttps://t.co/I3Fm9lFr9Y
A military aviation accident near Japan has ended in tragedy.
A U.S. Air Force V-22 Osprey crashed near Yakushima Island in southern Japan Wednesday.
Initial reports…
— The Western Journal (@WestJournalism) November 29, 2023
Japanese Vice Defense Minister Hiroyuki Miyazawa said that American colleagues described the incident as an emergency water landing. Japanese first responders arrived at the scene after a member of the public reported the crash. The aircraft’s left engine was reported to be on fire as it descended into the sea, and at least three bodies were recovered by fishermen. The safety record of the Osprey has been under scrutiny, with 51 American service members having died in accidents involving the aircraft since its introduction in 1989.
This incident raises concerns about the efficacy of the U.S. military under the Biden administration. The safety track record of the Osprey has been called into question, as this crash marks the fifth involving the aircraft since June 2022. The Pentagon’s reluctance to purchase new models of the Osprey could expedite the search for a replacement. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our service members and underscores the need for reliable and safe equipment for our armed forces.