A yet-to-be-ascertained number of people have died after two United States Army helicopters crashed during a routine training mission in Kentucky on Wednesday night.

It was learned that the two HH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, operated by the 101st Airborne Division, US Army, crashed at about 10:00 p.m. ET (02:00 GMT Thursday), with reports saying nine people may have been killed.

The HH-60 is a variant of the Black Hawk helicopter designed to provide support for various military operations, including air assaults and medical evacuations.

Speaking on the incident, Kentucky Governor, Andy Beshear, said it was “tough news” with “early reports of a helicopter crash and fatalities are expected”.

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Local military confirmed their helicopters were involved in the crash.

It happened in the Trigg County area, close to the large Fort Campbell military base.

Fort Campbell, in a statement, said two HH60 Blackhawk helicopters had crashed during “a routine training mission”.

“The status of the crew members are unknown at this time.

“The command is currently focused on caring for the service members and their families,” it said.

Fort Campbell added the incident was under investigation, adding that more information would be released.

The Fort Campbell military base is located a short distance from Trigg County.

The Star