In a stunning sequence of events, both a U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk helicopter and an F/A-18 fighter jet went down in the South China Sea within just thirty minutes of each other.

According to initial reports, the helicopter was conducting a routine training operation when it experienced mechanical failure and was forced to ditch into the ocean. Moments later, an F/A-18 fighter jet reportedly crashed while attempting to land on a nearby aircraft carrier.

Military officials have confirmed that all personnel were rescued from both incidents. Rescue operations were coordinated swiftly between multiple ships and aircraft operating in the region.

The U.S. Navy has launched an investigation to determine whether the two crashes are connected or purely coincidental.

Officials emphasized that no hostile activity has been reported in the area, though tensions remain high in the South China Sea due to ongoing territorial disputes.

Eyewitnesses aboard nearby vessels described the rescues as “incredibly fast and professional,” crediting the Navy’s preparedness and coordination for saving lives.

This marks the latest in a string of aviation incidents involving U.S. military assets in the Indo-Pacific, prompting renewed questions about maintenance and operational readiness under high-intensity training cycles.

More updates will follow as the Navy releases additional details.