Helicopter pilots likely pressed the wrong button during intense training manoeuvres, causing weapon mounts to fall from a National Guard H-145M in Peyia, a senior army officer told parliament today.
Deputy Chief of the National Guard Lieutenant General Neofytos Pachoulides attributed the 21 October incident to possible human error, though he said the Defence Ministry investigation has not been completed.
The pilots were performing demanding manoeuvres and dives when they may have accidentally activated a button that jettisons both weapon stations simultaneously—a safety feature designed to maintain the helicopter’s balance in emergencies, according to information presented to the parliamentary committee.
The error likely occurred because the weapons systems are new and the pilots were operating under the intensity of the exercise, sources said.
The National Guard is investigating with French manufacturer Airbus. Protective measures are being examined, possibly including a frame around the button to prevent accidental activation in future.
Read more: