A CV-22A Osprey Aircraft, a part of the Air Force’s 353rd Special Operations Wing, was involved in an aviation mishap off the shore of Yakushima Island, Japan, with eight airmen on board. Search and rescue operations are currently underway to locate the aircrew and their aircraft.

The Osprey was based at Yokota Air Base in Tokyo and was performing a routine training mission off the island. The cause of the incident is under investigation, and the Pentagon expresses gratitude to the Japanese government and Coast Guard for their assistance.

U.S.-owned Ospreys in Japan continue to operate despite ongoing search and rescue operations. An investigation into the mishap is ongoing, and the department is committed to safety. The immediate focus is on rescue efforts for the eight missing airmen. In response, officials at Yokota Air Base have set up an “Emergency Family Assistance Center” to support families of airmen and others affected by the mishap.

The center will provide counseling, assistance, and information to those affected by the mishap. The department will take necessary steps if the investigation yields results that require changes to the Osprey or additional steps.