Navy mourns as "Zappers" pilots confirmed dead in crash
The US Navy reported on Sunday evening that the two pilots who went missing after a fighter jet crash are deceased. The EA-18G Growler aircraft crashed last Tuesday during a training flight in the mountainous terrain of Washington state.
8:52 AM EDT, October 21, 2024
The air disaster occurred on Tuesday afternoon near Mount Rainier, a massive active volcano covered with snowfields and glaciers year-round. Search teams, including a Navy MH-60S helicopter, attempted to find the crew and the crash site.
"Soldiers from 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord are assisting in the search. 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) brings specialized mountaineering, high-angle rescue, medical, and technical communication skills necessary to navigate the difficult terrain associated with the Cascade Mountain Range that is inaccessible by other means," AP reported, citing the Navy.
The cause of the crash is still being investigated.
"It is with a heavy heart that we share the loss of two beloved Zappers. Our priority right now is taking care of the families of our fallen aviators, and ensuring the well-being of our Sailors and the Growler community. We are grateful for the ongoing teamwork to safely recover the deceased," said Squadron Commander Commander Timothy Warburton.
"Zappers" is the Navy's Electronic Attack Squadron 130 (VAQ-130) nickname. Its pilots use EA-18G Growler aircraft, which are employed for electronic warfare, including jamming enemy radars and communication systems. Each aircraft costs approximately 67 million dollars.
Most Growler squadrons are based on Whidbey Island in Washington state. One is stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan. The "Zappers" were also recently deployed on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier.
