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Australia: Four missing after military helicopter crash in Queensland, debris found

Australia: Four missing after military helicopter crash in Queensland, debris found

Amilitary helicopter has reportedly crashed into the ocean off Hamilton Island with four people on board

A military helicopter reportedly went down in the ocean off Hamilton Island. The crash occurred around 11 pm while the aircraft,carrying four individuals, was engaged in exercises with the Australian and US military.

Police said later that the debris from downed Australian military helicopter was later found.

The helicopter was partaking in Exercise Talisman Sabre. Recovery efforts have commenced, but it remains unclear whether the helicopter belonged to the Australian or American forces.

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"As we speak to you now, the four aircrew are yet to be found," Defence Minister Richard Marles said after a nearly 12 hour overnight search, which is set to continue Saturday.

"The families of the four aircrew have been notified of this incident and our hopes and thoughts are very much with the aircrew and their families," he added.

Defence officials halt joint exercise involving international troops

Defence authorities declared a temporary halt to the Talisman Sabre exercise, involving troops from Japan, France, Germany, and South Korea. The exercise, spanning two weeks, aimed to assess extensive logistics, land combat, amphibious landings, and air operations. Concurrently, Australia is undertaking a substantial restructuring of its military forces, focusing on enhancing long-range strike capabilities to maintain distance from potential adversaries like China.

The current situation regarding casualties or injuries remains uncertain. Defence Minister Richard Marles and Chief of Defence Force Angus Campbell are expected to hold a media briefing at 8:30 am.

(More information to follow)

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