LONDON — A member of the Royal Navy was killed when a helicopter ditched in the English Channel during a nighttime training exercise, the U.K. defense ministry said Thursday.
The Merlin MK4 helicopter carrying a crew of three ditched while conducting night flying exercises with the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth off England’s south coast on Wednesday, a statement by the ministry said.
The sailor’s family has been informed, the statement added. The two other crew were rescued and taken to a hospital but were not seriously hurt.
The ministry said “a full investigation” would be held.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was “deeply saddened” by the death and paid tribute to the crew of the Queen Elizabeth, “particularly those involved in the search and rescue operation.”
Defense Secretary John Healey, on a visit to a navy warship in the port of Portsmouth, said it was “dreadful news.”
“All my thoughts and the thoughts of those in the wider navy I’ve been with today are with the family, the friends and the close colleagues of the one we’ve lost today,” he said.
The Queen Elizabeth is one of the British navy’s two aircraft carriers, alongside HMS Prince of Wales. The navy uses the Merlin mark-4 as an amphibious battlefield helicopter to deploy Royal Marine commandos.
A Royal Navy service member tragically lost their life in a helicopter crash in the English Channel on Tuesday. The incident occurred during a routine training exercise, highlighting the risks that come with serving in the armed forces.
The helicopter, which was conducting a training mission with several other aircraft, reportedly experienced technical difficulties before crashing into the water. Despite efforts from rescue teams, the service member was unable to be saved.
The Royal Navy has launched an investigation into the crash to determine the cause and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The loss of a dedicated and brave service member is a reminder of the dangers that military personnel face on a daily basis.
The deceased service member has not yet been identified, as their family is still being notified. The Royal Navy has expressed their condolences to the family and friends of the fallen service member, and their thoughts are with them during this difficult time.
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the sacrifices that members of the armed forces make in service to their country. It is a stark reminder of the risks that come with serving in the military, and the bravery and dedication that these individuals possess.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the Royal Navy will be working to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The safety and well-being of their service members is of utmost importance, and steps will be taken to ensure that they are protected while carrying out their duties.
The loss of a Royal Navy service member in this helicopter crash is a heartbreaking event that serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve in the armed forces. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and their memory will live on in the hearts of their fellow service members and the nation as a whole.
