Eight people have died after a charter plane crashed at a remote radar site in western Alaska on Thursday, the United States military confirmed.

The civilian-contracted Cessna 441, operated by Anchorage-based Security Aviation, went down west of Cape Newenham LRRS Airport at approximately 20:15 GMT, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Rescuers who reached the crash site confirmed there were no survivors, according to a statement released by the Alaskan Command. The military did not specify the purpose of the individuals on board or their activities at the radar site, which is used to track aircraft in Alaskan airspace.

Alaskan Command chief Robert Davis expressed the profound impact of the loss, stating, "This is a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve." He further described the individuals as "dedicated professionals carrying out a vital mission in a demanding environment."

Clint Johnson, the National Transportation Safety Board’s Alaska region chief, had previously stated that the aircraft was carrying two pilots and six passengers. The Alaskan Command spokesperson indicated that the investigation into the crash is ongoing and the identities of the deceased will be released after their families have been notified.

The crash occurred at a remote location, underscoring the challenging conditions often faced by personnel operating in Alaska. Radar sites like the one near Cape Newenham play a critical role in maintaining airspace security and monitoring air traffic, particularly in vast and sparsely populated regions.

The NTSB will lead the investigation into the cause of the crash, examining factors such as weather, aircraft maintenance, and pilot performance. The findings will be crucial in understanding how the accident happened and in implementing measures to prevent future tragedies.

While the exact nature of the mission at the radar site remains undisclosed, the military's acknowledgment of a "vital mission" suggests its importance in national defense or operational oversight. The loss of eight individuals highlights the inherent risks associated with such operations in remote and demanding environments.