DJIBOUTI, Africa (January 10, 2017) MV-22 Ospreys prepare to land at a landing zone during a helo-borne raid as part of sustainment training conducted in Djibouti, Jan. 10. (US Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Brandon Maldonado)
CNN: US military grounds aircraft in Djibouti after multiple accidents
Washington (CNN)At the request of the Djiboutian government, the US military has halted its air operations in the East African country, a critical location in the fight against terrorism, following two accidents involving military aircraft, three defense officials told CNN.
On Tuesday, a US Marine Corps Harrier jet crashed at the country's international airport. The pilot was able to eject and was treated at a medical facility but has since been released according to several officials. Later the same day, a Marine Corps CH-53 helicopter sustained "minor damage" while landing in Arta Beach. While the helicopter's crew was uninjured, the officials told CNN that the US Navy is investigating reports that two civilians were injured by debris from the helicopter's rotor wash. However, the officials said that US Navy investigators have not been granted access to the alleged victims by local police.
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WNU Editor: This base is vital for counter-terrorism operations .... Flights grounded at U.S. military base in Africa crucial to anti-terror fight (NBC).
More News On The Pentagon Grounding Aircraft In Djibouti After Multiple Accidents
US cancels military exercise, grounds aircraft in Djibouti after crashes -- The Hill
US military air operations suspended in Djibouti, training exercise canceled amid Marine mishaps -- Marine Corps Times
Major Exercise Canceled After Military Grounds US Aircraft in Djibouti -- Military.com
US military flights grounded in Djibouti, exercise suspended following crashes -- Stars and Stripes
Air Operations in Djibouti Halted, Amphibious Exercise Canceled After 2 Marine Aviation Crashes on April 3 -- USNI News
