(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
Yesterday, on Saturday, April 20 at around 22:38, two Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) SH60K aircraft ceased communication over the sea east of Torishima Island of the Izu Islands during a nighttime anti-submarine warfare exercise. Seven of the eight crew members of the two aircraft are missing, and the MSDF is currently conducting a search of the area. The MSDF has confirmed at sea objects which appear to be part of the aircraft, and it is believed that the two aircraft crashed. In response to this matter, I issued three instructions at 23:26. First is to grasp the situation of the SDF aircraft concerned and conduct a search immediately. Second is to promptly confirm whether there is any damage to vessels and the like near the aircraft that ceased communication. Third is to promptly provide information to the local governments concerned. At the present point, the cause of the crash of the aircraft is unknown, but first and foremost, we will make every effort for lifesaving rescue activities.