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.
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.
