Jervis Bay, NSW: Navy helicopter with 10 on board crashes into sea during training exercise

Ten Australian Defense Force personnel have survived an army helicopter crash into the water off the south coast of New South Wales during a routine counter-terrorism exercise.

The soldiers were yanked from the water in a dramatic rescue after the army’s MRH-90 Taipan multi-role helicopter crashed into the water near Jervis Bay on Wednesday night.

Two crew members suffered minor injuries in the crash just after 9 p.m.

“All 10 Australian Defense Force personnel on board the aircraft have been recovered and accounted for and are being assessed by medical personnel from HMAS Creswell, south of Nowra, NSW,” the defense said in a statement.

Ten Australian Defense Force personnel have survived an army helicopter crash into the water off the south NSW coast during a routine training exercise (stock image)

The army chief, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC, thanked the forces for their quick action.

“Tonight, quick responses from ADF personnel and emergency services, as well as well-trained teams, averted a possible tragedy,” Lt. Gen. Stuart said.

“We will thoroughly investigate this incident to determine the cause and ensure the platform can continue to operate safely.”

The defense has temporarily suspended training activities and will ground the MRH-90 Taipan fleet while investigating the cause of the incident.

The scene of the accident is being contained by the Australian Federal Police and Port Services employees.