(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
I would like to explain the matter yesterday in which MSDF helicopters were believed to have crashed. With regard to one member of the crew who was sent to the hospital, as conveyed early this morning, we have confirmed that the crew member has died. It is very unfortunate that the situation has come to this despite our rigorous search and rescue operations since the accident first occurred. I would like to offer my sincere prayers for the crew member who passed away. As for the other seven crew members, the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) is making every effort in carrying out search and rescue operations. Specifically, there are 12 MSDF and Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) vessels and seven aircraft, including four rotary-wing and three fixed-wing aircraft. In addition, two vessels and an aircraft from the Japan Coast Guard are also participating in the search in the maritime area. We will continue to exert all efforts for lifesaving rescue activities. Moreover, the flight recorders of the two aircraft were found in close proximity and recovered. In light of this, we will investigate the cause of the crash, including the possibility of a collision between the two aircraft. Regarding the MSDF’s SH-60 rotary-wing aircraft, we have suspended training flights.