TO
Updated: July 1, 2026 2:01 pm ET/CBS News
Three members of the four-person crew of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter were rescued at sea after an “emergency water landing” in the Arabian Sea early Wednesday morning, according to U.S. Naval Central Command.
The search continues for the fourth and final crew member.
The military said there was “no indication that the helicopter was shot down as a result of hostile action.” The helicopter is assigned to the aircraft carrier George H. W. Bush.
“Three of the helicopter’s four crew members were recovered and are in stable condition aboard the George H.W. Bush,” U.S. Naval Forces Central Command said. “U.S. Navy assets in the region are currently searching for the other crew member who is still missing.”
The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. ET, which is around 11 a.m. local time.
US Navy/AFP via Getty Images
The USS George H. W. Bush has been in the Middle East since late April. It is one of two aircraft carriers remaining in the region. Although the US has lifted its blockade of ships entering and leaving the Strait of Hormuz, it still maintains a significant military presence.
As of mid-May, the United States had lost 42 aircraft or rotorcraft in Operation Epic Fury, the last time an update was provided to Congress.
This does not include the American Apache helicopter. shot down by Iranian drone at the beginning of June. Two crew members of this helicopter were rescued. This incident prompted the US to launch “self-defense strikes” against Iran.
Eleanor Watson contributed to this report.