A member of the Royal Navy has died after a Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed in the Channel off the coast of Dorset during a night-flying exercise.
Two other crew members were rescued after the crash, which took place during training with the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth.
The victim has not been named but their immediate family has been informed. Their identity is not expected to be confirmed on Thursday, as wider family members are being told about what happened.
On Thursday afternoon Keir Starmer said he was “deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death of a member of the Royal Navy”. The prime minister added that his “thoughts are with the family and loved ones during this painful time” and he paid tribute to those involved in the rescue operation.
Merlin Mk4 helicopters are used by elite special forces and the Royal Marines. Its modifications include, the Navy says, a special fast roping beam “that allows the rapid deployment of special forces” from the main cabin door.
It is understood the Merlin was taking part in a test flying exercise, routine practice after the Queen Elizabeth left port earlier this week. The aircraft carrier had completed a period of upgrade and repair to its starboard propeller shaft.
The helicopter has not been recovered from the sea bed, and its recovery is expected to be “a longer process”, naval sources said.
In a statement, the navy 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 incident involved a Merlin Mk4 helicopter in the English Channel near Dorset that ditched while conducting night-flying exercises with HMS Queen Elizabeth. There were no other fatalities or serious injuries.”
John Healey, the defence secretary, described the incident as “dreadful news”. An investigation led by the Defence Safety Authority through the Defence Accident Investigation Branch will take place, its finding independent of the Royal Navy.
A commando helicopter force, based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset, operates 25 Merlin Mk4 and 4as, is designed to provide air support to the Royal Marines – and available to be deployed globally at short notice if required.
