Kazakhstan Scrambles Rescue Operation After Military Helicopter Disappears

A military helicopter belonging to the Air Defense Forces of Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces disappeared from radar during a routine flight in the Almaty region, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation.

According to preliminary information, the EC-145 helicopter departed from Lugovoye airfield with three crew members on board. The aircraft lost communication and disappeared from radar screens near the area of Otar, The Caspian Post reports, citing Kazakh media.

Authorities have launched a large-scale response effort involving units from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Center for Disaster Medicine, the Republican Operational Rescue Team, and the Ministry’s aviation service. Two helicopters from Kazaviaspas have also been dispatched. In total, more than 100 personnel and around 15 specialized units of equipment, including aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, have been mobilized for the mission.

The Defense Ministry has formed a special commission to investigate the incident and determine the causes of the helicopter’s disappearance.