Canadian Military Helicopter Damaged During Night Landing on Frigate

A Canadian military helicopter sustained severe damage during a night landing on a navy frigate, according to defense authorities. The incident took place on Oct. 6 in the Norwegian Sea on board the HMCS Ville de Québec.

A Department of National Defence safety report indicates that two rotor blades struck the aircraft's tail boom as the Cyclone helicopter attempted to land. The impact cut several parts, including a drive shaft for the tail rotor.

Four crew members were inside the aircraft at the time. They carried out an emergency engine shutdown and evacuated safely, with defense officials confirming that no injuries were sustained.

The HMCS Ville de Québec has been deployed since July for Operation Reassurance, a NATO mission focused on deterring Russian aggression in eastern Europe.

An investigation into the crash remains active, exploring environmental elements, human factors, and equipment systems. Reports note that no technical faults have been discovered so far.