4 Soldiers Killed in Military Helicopter Crash in Malatya, Turkey — What Happened?
Quick answer: Four soldiers were killed when a Turkish military S-70 helicopter crashed in Samankoy, in the Yesilyurt district of Malatya province, in eastern Turkey, on Thursday, 12 November 2026. Turkey's Defence Ministry confirmed the deaths and said the cause of the crash had yet to be determined.
Key facts
- What: Military helicopter crash
- Where: Samankoy neighbourhood, Yesilyurt district, Malatya province, Turkey
- When: Thursday, 12 November 2026
- Reported toll: 4 soldiers killed
- Aircraft: S-70 helicopter
- Emergency number: 112 (Turkey)
What happened
The S-70 helicopter came down in Samankoy, in the Yesilyurt district of Malatya province, on Thursday, 12 November 2026. Turkey's Defence Ministry confirmed that four soldiers were killed in the crash. A fire broke out after the helicopter came down, and emergency crews were dispatched to the scene. The flames were extinguished, and search and rescue teams were sent to the area.
The ministry said the cause of the crash had yet to be determined. Daily Sabah reported the crash on 12 November, and the Associated Press also reported that a military helicopter had crashed in southern Turkey on Thursday, killing four military personnel, according to the Defence Ministry.
What happens next
The authorities were expected to examine the wreckage and the circumstances of the flight to establish what caused the helicopter to come down. No confirmed cause had been reported at the time of publication, and the investigation was ongoing.
Frequently asked questions
How many soldiers were killed in the Malatya helicopter crash?
A: Four soldiers were killed, according to Turkey's Defence Ministry, as reported by Daily Sabah and the Associated Press on 12 November 2026.
Where did the helicopter crash?
A: In Samankoy, in the Yesilyurt district of Malatya province, in eastern Turkey.
When did the crash happen?
A: On Thursday, 12 November 2026.
What type of helicopter was involved?
A: An S-70 helicopter, operated by the Turkish military.
What caused the crash?
A: The cause had yet to be determined at the time of reporting. Turkey's Defence Ministry said the cause of the crash was not yet known, and the investigation was ongoing.
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