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Topics: US News
Callum Jones
Topics: US News
Three US marines have sadly lost their lives after a military helicopter crashed during exercises in Australia.
Alongside the three who have lost their lives, authorities have confirmed that a further 20 are injured, with five of them said to be in serious condition.
It has been confirmed that all on board were US personnel, despite the exercise featuring troops from Australia, Malaysia and the Philippines.
The MV-22B Osprey helicopter came down on its way to the remote Tiwi islands, which is north of the Aussie city of Darwin.
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The devastating crash took place on Melville Island on Sunday (27 August).
The injured were flown by helicopter to Royal Darwin Hospital about 100km to the south of where the incident took place.
"Initial reports suggest the incident involves United States defence personnel and that Australian Defence Force members were not involved," the ministry initially said in a statement.
Prior to the confirmation three people had lost their lives, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government was focused on providing support for those who have been impacted.
At a previously scheduled press conference, he declined to provide details on the crash and the rescue efforts.
"Our focus as a government and as a department of defence is very much on incident response and on making sure that every support and assistance is given at this difficult time," he said.
The US Defense Department said previously said it was aware of media reports surrounding the crash, 'but we do not have anything we can provide at this time'.
But now, the Darwin Marine Rotational Force confirmed an investigation is underway to help establish the cause of the crash.
"The Marines aboard the aircraft were flying in support of Exercise Predators Run. Recovery efforts are ongoing," a statement from Darwin read.
It added: "The cause of the incident is under investigation."
Aussie PM Albanese has since described the incident as 'tragic' and has reiterated that every assistance will be provided to those impacted.
He told reporters: "Obviously this is a regrettable incident. I am unable to give further information.
"The Australian Defence Force are cooperating with our friends in the United States defence force to make sure that we provide every assistance possible."