USS George Washington confirms missing sailor off North Australian coast

The US Navy has confirmed one of its sailors has gone missing in the Timor Sea, with a desperate search now underway. Details.

The USS George Washington has confirmed it is searching for one of its sailors, who is believed to have gone overboard.

The US Navy has confirmed one of its sailors has gone missing in the Timor Sea, with a desperate search now underway.

In a statement, the US Navy revealed a possible ‘man overboard’ situation had occurred on Monday afternoon, with aircraft carrier USS George Washington being the vessel in-question.

The carrier has been operating off the northern Australian coastline as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025.

Now, USS George Washington and its carrier strike group has paused training to search the vast area, with Australian Defence Force and Australian Border Force assets also supporting the rescue effort.

“Australian Defence Force-owned and Australian Border Force contracted assets are supporting the search,” an ADF spokesman said.

“Including Royal Australian Air Force P8-A Poseidon aircraft and Royal Australian Navy Cape Class Patrol Boat ADV Cape Otway.”

The US Navy has not disclosed the rank or role of the missing person.

The incident comes as Exercise Talisman Sabre enters its final days, which is due to wrap up on August 4.

Originally published as USS George Washington confirms missing sailor off North Australian coast