News release
FORT DRUM, NY – At approximately 9:38 a.m. today, a RQ-7 Shadow Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) assigned to the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) crashed on Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield shortly after takeoff. Fort Drum Emergency Services is stationed on the airfield and rapidly responded to the crash site, extinguishing the small aircraft that was in flames.
There are no fatalities, injuries or damage to facilities as a result of the incident. The RQ-7 Shadow does not carry ordnance. The Fort Drum Environmental Compliance team responded to the crash site, completed required testing, and facilitated the removal of petroleum contaminated soil for remediation. The UAS is a total loss.
“The response to this incident was fast, expert and most importantly – safe. I am incredibly grateful to all working on, and behind, the scene to minimize the impact of this incident on our mission and to understand what went wrong on this flight,” said Colonel Travis McIntosh, Commander, 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.