A fatal aviation incident occurred on Thursday in the Brcko region of Bosnia, approximately 180km north of the capital, Sarajevo. A CH-47 Chinook helicopter operated by the European Union Force in Bosnia (EUFOR) crashed during a routine training exercise, leading to the deaths of four Italian nationals. The Italian Ministry of Defence confirmed that the casualties included two soldiers and two volunteers from the Red Cross who were on board the aircraft at the time of the accident. According to EUFOR, A CH-47 Chinook helicopter crashed during “routine training” in the Brcko region on Thursday, about 180km (110 miles) north of Bosnia’s capital, Sarajevo. According to the Italian government, In a statement that all those on board the military helicopter were its nationals.
Reports from local medical authorities indicate there were 15 people aboard the helicopter. A representative from the hospital in Brcko stated that 12 individuals were transported for emergency care following the crash, which initially resulted in three deaths at the scene. Tragically, a fourth victim later succumbed to their injuries while undergoing treatment at the medical facility.
Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto expressed his profound sorrow over the incident, conveying his condolences to the families of the victims and the broader defence community. Meanwhile, EUFOR has confirmed that the 11 survivors are currently receiving medical attention and remain in stable condition. Photos shared by regional media outlets show the wreckage of the helicopter overturned in an open field. “At this moment of immense grief, my thoughts go first and foremost to the families of our fallen, to whom I extend my personal condolences and those of the entire defence establishment,” Italian Defence Minister Guido C.
EUFOR has initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the training accident and has committed to releasing further information as details are verified.
This peacekeeping force, consisting of between 1,000 and 1,500 personnel, has maintained a presence in Bosnia since 2004. Their mission remains focused on supporting the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement, which concluded the three-year Bosnian War in 1995, succeeding a previous NATO-led peacekeeping operation.
