During a routine training exercise in the English Channel, a Royal Navy service member tragically lost their life in a helicopter crash.
The incident occurred when a Merlin Mk4 helicopter, engaged in night flying drills near Dorset with the HMS Queen Elizabeth, crashed into the sea.
Onboard were three crew members; fortunately, two were rescued by the HM Coastguard and transported to the hospital without serious injuries.
Sadly, the third crew member did not survive.
The family of the deceased has been notified, though their identity has not been publicly disclosed.
Other Helicopters Involved and Reactions
At the time of the incident, a second Merlin helicopter was also in the air, participating in the same exercise.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic event, offering his condolences to the family and acknowledging the efforts of HMS Queen Elizabeth’s crew during the rescue operation.
During a visit to Portsmouth, Defence Secretary John Healey also shared his shock and sadness, extending thoughts to the deceased’s family, friends, and colleagues.
Admiral Sir Ben Key, First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the profound impact this loss has had on the Naval Community.
The Royal Navy confirmed that a full investigation into the incident would take place.
HMS Queen Elizabeth: A Powerful Naval Force
HMS Queen Elizabeth, the largest and most powerful vessel in the Royal Navy, had recently left Portsmouth Harbour for a period of equipment trials and training.
This 65,000-tonne warship is one of two Queen Elizabeth-class carriers, alongside HMS Prince of Wales.
These massive vessels are comparable in size to four football fields and can house 1,600 sailors and aircrew.
The HMS Queen Elizabeth is equipped to carry up to 40 aircraft, including the advanced Merlin MK 4 helicopters and F-35B stealth jets.
The Merlin MK 4 Helicopter
The Merlin MK 4 is one of the most sophisticated helicopters in the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm.
It is capable of transporting Royal Marine Commandos and special forces into combat and conducting anti-submarine missions, search and rescue operations.
This helicopter can fly at nearly 200 mph, has a range of 750 nautical miles, and can lift 3.8 tonnes—more than the weight of a large van.
While military helicopter crashes are rare, crews routinely conduct drills to prepare for such incidents.
Previous Accidents and the “Cursed” HMS Queen Elizabeth
The recent helicopter tragedy adds to a series of unfortunate events involving the HMS Queen Elizabeth.
Earlier, the ship had to spend months in dry dock due to a propeller shaft issue, a problem similar to one that had sidelined its sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, for nearly a year.
Additionally, while docked in Scotland, a fire broke out on the vessel, destroying 100 beds and injuring 10 sailors.
Despite these challenges, the HMS Queen Elizabeth remains the pride of the Royal Navy, though recent events have cast a shadow over its reputation.
Looking Ahead
As investigations into the latest incident unfold, the Royal Navy and the broader military community will continue to honor the memory of the fallen service member.
The HMS Queen Elizabeth will persist in its operations, but the recent tragedies serve as somber reminders of the risks faced by those who serve at sea.
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