NHIndustries MRH-90 Taipan crash near Whitsunday Islands, Australia

An Australian Army MRH-90 Taipan helicopter (callsign Bushman 83) catastrophically crashed into waters near Lindeman Island in the Whitsunday Islands during a night-time counter-terrorism training exercise as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023. All four crew members were killed: Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock, and Corporal Alexander Naggs. Australia grounded its entire fleet of 45 Taipan helicopters following the crash. The Defence Flight Safety Bureau investigation identified issues with fatigue management and the TopOwl helmet-mounted display system. Comcare referred two briefs of evidence to the Commonwealth DPP. In July 2026, the families of the four soldiers launched a class action against the Commonwealth and Airbus, alleging the aircraft was not fit for purpose.