Two Australian Special Forces soldiers from 2nd Commando Regiment were killed when an ISAF helicopter crashed in Helmand earlier today, 30 August.
The Australian Special Forces and their partnered Afghan National Security Force unit were participating in a targeted mission at the time of the incident.
Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Air Marshal Mark Binskin said the soldiers were en route to the mission area when their aircraft impacted the ground.
“Early reporting indicates the aircraft was attempting to land in the mission area when the incident occurred,” Air Marshal Binskin said.
Air Marshal Binskin extended his condolences to the families and friends of the soldiers on behalf of the Minister for Defence, the Chief of the Defence Force, the Chief of Army and the Defence community.
“I cannot begin to describe the overwhelming grief that their families are experiencing but I want them to know that Army and the ADF community share their anguish and we will continue to support them and care for them,” Air Marshal Binskin said.
“This is a terrible day for all and our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected by this incident.”
The cause of the crash is not yet known, but specialist aircraft recovery personnel are on the site to ensure information required for an air crash investigation is appropriately recorded.
Initial reporting indicates there was no insurgent action in the area at the time of the incident which could be related to the crash.
The Special Operations Task Group mission was not in support of security operations to apprehend the perpetrator of the Patrol Base Wahab shooting overnight in which three Australian soldiers were killed and two wounded.
Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
