The Navy has released a statement following the incident
A member of the Royal Navy has died after a Merlin Mk4 helicopter ditched in the English Channel during a night flying exercise.
The BBC reports that the incident took place near Dorset last night (September 4).
A Royal Navy spokesperson said: “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 spokesperson said the helicopter had been conducting night flying exercises with another Merlin helicopter and HMS Queen Elizabeth at the time of the incident.
Three crew members had been onboard the Merlin helicopter when it ditched into the sea. The two other people on the aircraft were rescued and taken to hospital, but were not seriously injured.
HM Coastguard assisted in the rescue operation.
The Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he is “”deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death.”
He wrote in a post on X: “My thoughts are with the family and loved ones during this painful time. I pay tribute to @HMSQNLZ ship’s company, particularly those involved in the search and rescue operation.”
Meanwhile, defence secretary John Healey said it was “truly dreadful news” as he sent his condolences.
He wrote on X: “Dreadful news about the death of one of our Royal Navy personnel in an incident overnight.
“My thoughts are with their family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time. There will be a full investigation into how this accident occurred.”
He told media on a visit to HMS Diamond in Portsmouth that “everyone connected to the armed forces” will be mourning the death of the Navy member.
