Two officers killed and one taken to hospital after Helicopter crash in King’s Lynn
UK Navy Personnel Dead After Helicopter Crash In Channel
During a nighttime flying practice with an aircraft carrier, a Merlin helicopter crashed in the Channel, killing a member of the British Royal Navy, the military announced Thursday.
“We regret to inform you that a member of the Royal Navy passed away last night as a result of a training incident,” the navy said in a statement
Our condolences are with the family, who have been notified, and everyone impacted during this difficult time. A thorough inquiry will be conducted.
A Merlin Mk4 helicopter, which is mainly used to deploy marine commandos, “ditched” in the Channel off the coast of southwest England, according to the statement.
It had been taking part in exercises with HMS Queen Elizabeth, one of the two flagship aircraft carriers of the United Kingdom, at night.
According to the statement, “no additional fatalities or serious injuries occurred.”
The defense ministry claims that HMS Queen Elizabeth, which debuted in 2014, is “the largest and most powerful vessel ever constructed for the Royal Navy” and can accommodate up to 40 aircraft.
The “tragic death” left Prime Minister Keir Starmer “deeply saddened.”
He continued on X, saying, “My thoughts are with the family and loved ones during this painful time.”
The crew of the aircraft carrier, who assisted in the search and rescue effort, were also honored by the UK leader.
John Healey, the defense secretary, described the death’s news as “dreadful.”
