US Navy calls off search for missing sailor following helicopter crash in Arabian Sea

The U.S. military has suspended its search for a sailor who went missing after an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter crashed in the Arabian Sea. The U.S. Naval Forces Central Command announced the decision on Sunday, concluding a search that spanned over 102 hours and covered more than 14,000 square miles.

The helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 of the U.S. 5th Fleet based in Bahrain, was en route from the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier when it made an emergency water landing. While the exact cause of the incident is still under investigation, U.S. military officials have stated that foul play is not suspected. The sailor's identity is being withheld for at least 24 hours as the family is notified, in accordance with U.S. Navy policy.

Three other sailors were injured during the crash and are currently in stable condition. Helicopter water landings are known to be particularly hazardous due to the aircraft's tendency to flip upside down upon submersion. The extensive search effort involved multiple U.S. naval ships and aircraft, underscoring the commitment to locating the missing crew member.

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the sailor's identity will be withheld for at least 24 hours as the deceased's family is notified.