US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced today that US forces rescued two US Army AH-64 Apache helicopter pilots at 19h33 eastern time on 8/6 (6h33 Hanoi time on 9/6), after their helicopter crashed near the Omani coast during a regional patrol.
Both pilots were in stable condition, and the incident is under investigation.
CENTCOM reported the service members were rescued approximately two hours after the crash. The operation was led by Naval Central Command and the 82nd Airborne Division, in coordination with regional naval and air units, including Task Force 59 of the 5th Fleet.
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An AH-64 Apache attack helicopter squadron during an exercise in Kuwait in 9/2025. _US Army_ |
Task Force 59 specializes in operating US Navy unmanned systems. A US official, speaking to ABC, revealed that the two pilots were rescued by an unmanned surface vessel, similar in design to a speedboat. This vessel was deployed to reach the distressed service members, pick them up, and transport them safely to shore.
The cause of the Apache crash remains unknown, with possibilities ranging from Iranian fire to a technical malfunction or other issues. The incident occurred near the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic shipping lane connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, and a known flashpoint for confrontation between the US and Iran.
The AH-64 Apache helicopter is a critical asset for the US military in the region, used for operations such as enforcing blockades on Iranian ports, escorting vessels through the strait, and ensuring maritime security.
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Location of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz. _Guardian_ |
Apache squadrons have recently been operating closer to Iranian territory, including islands controlled by Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also deployed Apaches to intercept Iranian drones.
As of early 2025, the US Army operates a fleet of 750 Apache helicopters, including 160 AH-64D and 590 advanced AH-64E models. An AH-64D costs USD 31-35 million, while an AH-64E typically has an ex-factory price of USD 35 million. When factoring in components, technical support, weaponry, and operational training, the cost for each AH-64D/E can reach USD 50-65 million.
The US military has lost at least 40 aircraft in six weeks of conflict with Iran, including critical assets like the "eye in the sky" E-3G Sentry and several F-15E multi-role fighters. This 8/6 incident, however, marks the first Apache helicopter crash since their deployment to the Middle East in late March to patrol the Strait of Hormuz.
_Thanh Danh, (Source: ABC, AP)_
