A US Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, according to a report by The New York Times. The two crew members on board were rescued safely and did not suffer serious injuries.
The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. Officials are still assessing whether the helicopter was brought down by hostile fire, suffered a mechanical malfunction or encountered another operational issue.
Incident comes amid rising regional tensions
The crash occurred on the same day that Israel and Iran exchanged military strikes, significantly raising tensions across West Asia before both sides appeared to pull back from further escalation.
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The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, carrying a significant portion of global oil and energy shipments.
Trump confirms pilots are safe
US President Donald Trump acknowledged reports of the helicopter incident and assured that both pilots were unharmed.
‘The pilots are fine… we are going to issue a report tomorrow, but the pilots are fine,’ Trump said while addressing reporters.
Further details regarding the circumstances of the crash are expected to be released after an official investigation.
US military operations in Strait of Hormuz
The United States has been deploying Apache helicopters, MQ-9 Reaper drones, F/A-18 fighter jets and F-35 aircraft in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
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These assets have been used to counter Iranian efforts that have disrupted movement through the waterway. The route is considered critical because roughly one-fifth of the world’s energy supplies pass through it.
Apache helicopters regularly patrol the area to deter attacks by small boats and intercept hostile drones.
First Apache reportedly lost during conflict
According to available reports, Iran has damaged or destroyed dozens of US military aircraft since hostilities began on February 28, including MQ-9 Reaper drones, F-15E fighter jets and MC-130J special operations aircraft.
If confirmed, this would be the first reported loss of an Apache helicopter during the conflict.
Why the Apache is considered one of world’s most powerful gunships
The AH-64 Apache is widely regarded as one of the most advanced combat helicopters in service today. It is equipped with Hellfire missiles, advanced targeting technology and heavy armour designed to protect its crew in combat situations.
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The helicopter is capable of engaging tanks, armoured vehicles and aerial threats while operating in high-risk environments.
Its reinforced structure and protective systems are designed to withstand significant battlefield damage, making it one of the most effective attack helicopters used by the US military.
US presence near Iran has increased
In recent months, American military operations near the Strait of Hormuz have intensified. Earlier this year, US Central Command released images showing its commander, Admiral Brad Cooper, flying over the region during a mission aimed at supporting commercial shipping traffic.
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Military aircraft and helicopters have increasingly operated closer to Iranian territory as Washington maintains pressure amid ongoing regional tensions and diplomatic efforts.
First published on: Jun 09, 2026 11:49 AM IST
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