A member of Britain’s Royal Navy has tragically died following a Merlin helicopter crash in the Channel during a night-flying exercise, the armed forces confirmed on Thursday, September 5.
The incident occurred during a training operation alongside the HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier, off the southwest coast of England. The Royal Navy released a statement expressing their sorrow: “It is with great sadness that we must report a member of the Royal Navy has died following a training incident last night. Our thoughts are with the family — who have been informed — and all those affected at this sad time. A full investigation will take place.”
The Merlin Mk4 helicopter, which is primarily used to deploy marine commandos, “ditched” into the Channel during the night-time exercise. Fortunately, there were no other fatalities or serious injuries among the crew.
The HMS Queen Elizabeth, launched in 2014, is one of the UK’s two flagship aircraft carriers and is considered the largest and most powerful vessel ever built for the Royal Navy, capable of carrying up to 40 aircraft.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his condolences, saying he was “deeply saddened” by the “tragic death.” He added, “My thoughts are with the family and loved ones during this painful time.”
Defence Secretary John Healey also called the incident “dreadful,” while paying tribute to the crew of the HMS Queen Elizabeth, who played a key role in the search-and-rescue operation.
A full investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.
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