A Royal Navy personnel has died after a chopper crashed into the English Channel.

The tragic incident happened during a night-time military exercise over the Channel.

A Merlin helicopter reportedly ditched in the channel while carrying out a night-flying exercise with HMS Queen Elizabeth, the MoD said.

The Royal Navy said in a statement: ‘It is with great sadness that we must report a member of the Royal Navy has died following a training incident last night.

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PORTSMOUTH: HMS Queen Elizabeth leaves Portsmouth Harbour this afternoon (monday). The ship recently underwent multi million pound repairs in Scotland after a propeller shaft mis alignment. Photograph By Chris Gorman / Big Ladder 2nd September 2024.

The Royal Navy helicopter was on a mission with HMS Queen Elizabeth (pictured)(Picture: Chris Gorman/Big Ladder)

‘Our thoughts are with the family – who have been informed – and all those affected at this sad time. A full investigation will take place.

‘The incident involved a Merlin Mk4 helicopter in the English Channel near Dorset that ditched while conducting night flying exercises with HMS Queen Elizabeth. There were no other fatalities or serious injuries.’

Defence secretary John Healey described the death as ‘dreadful,’ PA news agency reports.

https://metro.co.uk/2024/09/05/one-dead-royal-navy-helicopter-crashes-channel-21554231/