Royal Navy member dies in helicopter crash during night exercise

A member of the Royal Navy has died in a helicopter crash during night flying exercises with HMS Queen Elizabeth. The Navy expressed its deep sadness and said: “Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected at this sad time. A full investigation will take place.”

The Merlin Mk4 helicopter with three people on board crashed into the channel near Dorset. Her Majesty's Coastguard assisted in the rescue operation. There were no other fatalities or serious injuries and the other two crew members were taken to hospital. The family of the deceased have been informed.

Aircraft tracking showed two Merlin helicopters from Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton operating off the Dorset coast. Both were airborne at 8.40pm but disappeared from the pursuit at 8.52pm. A search and rescue helicopter from Solent Airport arrived at around 9.25pm, followed by a military helicopter at around 10.15pm. Two more helicopters from Portland and Cornwall joined the search at around 10.30pm.

#BREAK : Royal Navy member dies after Merlin helicopter crashes during night exercise in the English Channel.#RoyalNavy #HelicopterCrash #MerlinHelicopter #EnglishChannel pic.twitter.com/bYCsf8DMvq

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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his deep sadness at the tragic death and expressed his thoughts to the family and loved ones at this painful time. He also paid tribute to the crew of HMS Queen Elizabeth, particularly those involved in the search and rescue operation.

A military analyst highlighted the professional and close-knit community within the Royal Navy, citing the Merlin Mk4 helicopter's excellent safety record and the extensive training of its crew. The analyst explained that night operations over the sea are challenging and the crew undergo rigorous training to deal with emergencies. Despite this, the accident resulted in a tragic loss and a thorough investigation will be carried out to prevent such incidents in the future.

Defence Secretary John Healey called the news “appalling” during a visit to HMS Diamond in Portsmouth and stressed the collective grief within the armed forces. The First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, also expressed his deep sadness, acknowledged the shock of the naval community and sent his condolences to the family.

The Merlin Mk4 helicopter used by the Royal Marines is described as “the most advanced amphibious assault helicopter in the world” and can carry up to 24 soldiers. HMS Queen Elizabeth is described as “the largest and most powerful ship ever built for the Royal Navy” and can carry up to 40 aircraft. The carrier continues to operate at sea.