US military claims first drone boat rescue of downed helicopter crew

In a groundbreaking mission, a drone-operated boat successfully rescued two U.S. Army pilots from the waters near the Strait of Hormuz after their helicopter gunship went down. Military officials confirmed to various news outlets that this incident marks a significant first for the U.S. military, showcasing the use of an uncrewed vessel in a rescue operation at sea. The two crew members, who were flying an AH-64 Apache helicopter, were retrieved by American forces at 7:33 PM Eastern Time on June 8, following the incident off the coast of Oman. A statement from U.S. Central Command highlighted the role of U.S. Navy units, including the 5th Fleet’s Task Force 59, which focuses on integrating uncrewed vehicles and artificial intelligence into maritime operations. According to anonymous military sources, the Apache crew was rescued by a surface drone operated by Task Force 59, marking a historic moment as the first time a drone has been used for such a mission. An unnamed official elaborated that the drone resembled a speedboat, effectively retrieving the pilots from the water and ensuring their safe return. The New York Times first reported on the helicopter's downing and subsequent rescue, citing an anonymous source familiar with the situation. However, details remain unclear regarding the cause of the helicopter's crash, with possibilities ranging from mechanical failure to potential engagement with Iranian fire.