A routine nuclear security drill in Malaysia took an unexpected turn when an AS355N police helicopter crashed into the Pulai River during the Mitsatom 2025 exercise, injuring five crew members. The crash occurred near Gelang Patah, Johor, just after takeoff from Tanjung Kupang, around 9:50 am on July 10.

Rescue teams swiftly responded. All five crew were hospitalized at Sultanah Aminah Hospital; two critically required breathing support, while three remain stable. The helicopter crash happened mid-exercise, interrupting a multilateral nuclear security operation involving Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.

Authorities described a "nosedive" plunge into the river, prompting the Civil Aviation Authority and Air Accident Investigation Bureau to open a formal probe under national aviation regulations. Inspector-General Khalid Ismail emphasized that while the helicopter was old, proper maintenance not age is crucial.

Work is underway to review the AS355N helicopter fleet, which has been in operation for 28 years and possibly removing it from service. At the same time, the authorities have warned the public not to speculate or share videos of the rescue operation, and respect the privacy of the victims.

This unfortunate phenomenon occurred during the drill shows that high -risk exercises also have the possibility of real threats. Malaysia's quick response - rascal operation, probe and safety revaluation - can strengthen the protocol, to prevent recurrence of such incidents in the future.