A member of the Royal Navy has tragically died after a helicopter crashed while conducting night-flying exercises with HMS Queen Elizabeth. The incident occurred when a Merlin Mk4 helicopter, carrying three people, ditched into the sea near Dorset during a training operation. The Royal Navy confirmed that HM Coastguard was involved in the rescue, with no other fatalities or serious injuries reported.
In an official statement, the Navy expressed its sorrow: “It is with great sadness that we must report the death of a Royal Navy member following a training incident last night. Our thoughts are with the family, who have been informed, and all those affected by this tragic event. A full investigation will be carried out.” The name of the deceased has not yet been released.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer responded to the news, expressing his deep sadness: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death of a Royal Navy member. My thoughts are with the family and loved ones at this painful time.” He also posted on X, paying tribute to the crew of HMS Queen Elizabeth, especially those involved in the search and rescue efforts.
Defence Secretary John Healey echoed these sentiments, describing the loss as “dreadful news.” During a visit to HMS Diamond in Portsmouth, he remarked: “All my thoughts, and those of the wider navy I’ve been with today, are with the family, friends, and close colleagues of the one we have lost.”
HMS Queen Elizabeth, the Royal Navy’s largest and most powerful ship, is reportedly still operational at sea. The vessel, capable of carrying up to 40 aircraft, remains a key asset in the Navy’s fleet. A full investigation into the cause of the accident is now underway.
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