Thursday June 04, 2026

3 died after Royal Navy helicopter crash in southwest England

Published : 04 Jun 2026, 02:06

  DF News Desk

Three Royal Navy members have died after a Royal Navy helicopter crashed into a field in Devon, southwest England, Britain's Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday, reported Xinhua.

"It is with deep sadness that we can confirm three members of the Royal Navy have died during a helicopter training exercise on Wednesday 3 June near Sourton, Devon," the ministry said in a statement on social media.

Devon and Cornwall Police said earlier in the day that emergency services are at the scene of the incident, which took place just before 4 a.m. local time, according to British media.

It is also reported that the site is close to The Royal Navy's two air bases, as well as Okehampton battle camp, a military facility used for training Merlin helicopter crew.

Speaking of the incident in the House of Commons, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was aware of the incident, adding: "This will be a deeply worrying time for the families and more information will be set out as soon as possible."