A South Korean military AH-1S Cobra attack helicopter crashed during a training flight in Gapyeong County, in the northern part of the country, resulting in the deaths of both crew members on board.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the two crew members, who sustained critical injuries in the crash, were immediately evacuated to nearby hospitals. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, they could not be saved and were pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The cause of the incident remains unknown. Following the tragedy, military leadership has temporarily suspended the operation of all AH-1S helicopters. A special emergency response team has been established to investigate the circumstances of the crash, security measures have been tightened at the site, and a formal inquiry has been launched.
According to reports, the training exercise involved practicing emergency landing procedures without shutting down the engine. Investigations into the matter are currently ongoing. The AH-1S Cobra has been a staple of South Korea's attack helicopter fleet for decades, providing close air support and anti-tank capabilities. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining aging military hardware while ensuring pilot safety during rigorous combat readiness drills.
