Search underway for 2 missing Japanese military copters, feared crashed into Pacific

By Faruk Zorlu

A search operation is underway for two Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force helicopters after contact was lost with the aircraft near Japan’s Izu Islands late Saturday.

It is feared they may have crashed into the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

The navy helicopters, both SH-60K models, each carrying four personnel, lost contact near Torishima Island, south of Tokyo, Japanese public broadcaster NHK said, citing Japanese Defense Ministry sources.

The cause of the presumed accident has not yet been determined.