CH-47 investigation results released

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. United States Central Command has released the results of its investigation into the CH-47 helicopter crash in Tangi Valley, Wardak Province, Afghanistan, Aug. 6, that killed all 38 personnel onboard, including 30 U.S. and 8 Afghan service members. The resulting investigation confirmed the crash was caused by an insurgent-fired rocket-propelled grenade striking the CH-47s aft rotor-blade as the helicopter approached its landing zone. There was no evidence of a pre-planned ambush. The investigation determined that the helicopters mission and tactics were consistent with previous missions, and that the forces and capabilities selected to execute this mission were appropriate given the agility required to maintain pressure on insurgent networks. It further concluded that the Army aviators flying the mission were fully qualified to perform their required tasks, that the CH-47 helicopter involved was fully mission capable, and that the number of personnel on board was tactically sound and well within the helicopters technical specifications and capabilities. The report concluded by praising the skill, valor and selflessness of those killed, and acknowledged their and their families commitment and sacrifice. This sentiment was echoed by USCENTCOM Commander General James Mattis, who directed the investigation to take place and appointed an investigating officer Aug. 7. This report reinforces my appreciation and unbounded admiration for the courage and skill continuously shown by our Special Operations Forces, conventional forces, and our partner forces from the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, said Mattis. I offer my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the fallen during a mission made in defense of both our nations. The investigating officer was Army Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Colt, Deputy Commanding General, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky. Colt led a team of multi-disciplinary subject matter experts to determine the facts and circumstances of the crash, its cause, and make recommendations to improve operations. The team relied on multiple sources, including interviews, logs, video, briefing materials, and inspection of aircraft wreckage to assemble a detailed sequence of events surrounding the CH-47s crash.