5 United States special forces members have lost their lives during a training exercise after a military Black Hawk helicopter crashed into the Mediterranean Sea on Saturday morning.
According to the U.S. European Command in a news release, the accident occurred during a routine air refueling mission, with Search and rescue efforts beginning immediately.
The EUCOM also said investigation into the crash is ongoing.
A U.S. aircraft carrier and accompanying ships are operating in the Mediterranean as part of their mission to stop Iran from getting directly involved in the war between Israel and Hamas.
US Officials says there was no indication of hostile fire.
The US Department of Defense is currently withholding the identities of those killed until after next of kin have been notified.
“While we continue to gather more information about this deadly crash, it is another stark reminder that the brave men and women who defend our great nation put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our country safe,” Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said in a statement. “They represent the best of America. We will remember their service and their sacrifice.”
