Expressions of condolences have been extended by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius following the crash of a Bundeswehr helicopter on Tuesday. Pistorius stated, “The death of the crew members deeply affects me and the entire Bundeswehr. We wish the families of the missing individuals strength during this difficult time.
The minister confirmed a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the incident is underway. “The causes and circumstances of this tragic accident are currently being investigated” Pistorius stated. The Bundeswehr’s General Flight Safety will lead the investigation in coordination with civilian authorities. The ministry has declined to speculate on potential causes at this time.
Pistorius also acknowledged and thanked the extensive emergency response efforts. “More than 200 personnel are involved in the response and they have literally done everything to enable rescue and recovery operations and to contribute to clarifying the incident” he said.
The incident occurred this morning when an EC-135 helicopter crashed near Grimma, located east of Leipzig. Two crew members were found deceased and efforts are ongoing to locate a third missing crew member. Search and rescue operations are presently underway. The EC-135 helicopter, utilized by Helicopter Squadron 64 for training purposes, was on a routine training flight and was a leased aircraft.
