Helicopter crash results in fatalities within military ranks - Helicopter crash of the German armed forces, Bundeswehr, leaves two casualties
A tragic incident occurred on July 29, 2025, when a Bundeswehr EC-135 helicopter crashed into the Mulde River near Grimma in Saxony during a training flight. The accident claimed at least two lives, with one crew member still missing.
The helicopter, operated by Helicopter Squadron 64 and leased for training purposes, disappeared between 10:00 and 10.30, as per air traffic control. Debris from the helicopter was found in the Mulde river around noon.
Emergency responders, including federal, state, and water police, along with divers, are conducting search and rescue operations. The crash site is difficult to access, and there was a significant kerosene leak into the river. About 50 emergency personnel worked to contain the kerosene before starting the salvage operation. An oil barrier is being built to prevent the kerosene from spreading on the water.
A restricted military zone has been established around the crash location by the Bundeswehr. Bundeswehr forces are on site for rescue or investigative activities. A military security area has been set up at the crash site. The identities of the dead and the missing crew member were not disclosed by the spokesperson.
Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) expressed shock over the incident. The spokesperson for the air force confirmed the deaths and the missing person on Tuesday evening. The crashed helicopter had an experienced crew, according to the spokesperson.
The Mulde river might be closed for water sports from the Bahren Bridge to the motorway bridge until the end of the week due to the helicopter crash incident. The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.
This article has been updated several times to reflect the latest developments in the incident. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected.
- The Bundeswehr has implemented a community policy to address the incident, with a focus on the vocational training of its helicopter crew, in light of the recent crash on July 29, 2025, in which an EC-135 helicopter from Helicopter Squadron 64 leased for training purposes plunged into the Mulde River.
- Meanwhile, as the investigation into the unfortunate crash and the ongoing search for the missing crew member unfolds, local authorities are considering the implications for general-news, crime-and-justice, and even accidents, with potential repercussions for water sports on the Mulde river.
