Japanese Navy Report Details Cause of Fatal Helicopter Collision

TOKYO — A Japanese navy report released Tuesday detailed the circumstances leading to the tragic collision of two SH-60K reconnaissance helicopters during a nighttime training exercise near Torishima island in April. The incident, which resulted in the loss of all eight personnel on board both aircraft, was attributed to a series of operational failures including the lack of clear instructions to the crew and inadequate communication between commanding officers.

According to the investigation conducted by the Maritime Staff Office, the helicopters were engaged in anti-submarine training, flying separately towards a simulated target when they collided. Both aircraft were under the control of different ship-based officers who failed to coordinate effectively. The report highlighted that neither helicopter initiated collision avoidance maneuvers, indicating a critical misjudgment of distance between the aircraft. The collision occurred when one helicopter flying straight collided with the side of the other helicopter, which was making a turn at the same altitude.

The report further noted lapses in lookout procedures and information sharing among crew members, as well as insufficient communication between the commanding officers and their respective crews. Recommendations included enhancing crew lookout protocols, upgrading equipment such as installing proximity warning systems, and emphasizing the necessity for clear and consistent communication among officers and crew during operations.

Defense Minister Minoru Kihara, addressing the findings at a news conference, expressed solemnity over the loss of life and pledged stringent measures to prevent future incidents. Following the investigation, flight training involving multiple SH-60K helicopters is set to resume, having been restricted to solo flights since the collision.

The SH-60K helicopters, based on the Seahawk design by Sikorsky and manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, were confirmed to have had no mechanical issues contributing to the accident. Japan currently operates approximately 70 of these multi-mission aircraft.

The collision underscores ongoing efforts by Japan to bolster its military capabilities, particularly in response to heightened regional security concerns. Under its 2022 security strategy, Japan has intensified naval exercises and collaborations with international partners, aimed at fortifying defenses against increased military activities, particularly from neighboring China.