South China Sea – Two U.S. Navy aircraft from the USS Nimitz carrier strike group crashed in the South China Sea on October 26, 2025, in separate incidents just 30 minutes apart during routine operations, but all crew members were recovered alive with no serious injuries.
The first incident involved an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 15, the “Battle Cats,” which went down at approximately 2:45 p.m. local time near the carrier. The three crew members ejected and were swiftly rescued by Navy helicopters.
Less than an hour later, at 3:15 p.m., a two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, the “Fighting Redcocks,” also crashed. Both pilots ejected safely and were recovered by search and rescue teams.
The incidents occurred during a deployment amid heightened U.S.-China tensions in the region, but the Navy confirmed no evidence of hostile action. Investigations are underway by the Naval Safety Center to determine causes, possibly mechanical failure or pilot error. The USS Nimitz, part of the carrier strike group operating in the South China Sea, continues its mission.
