Three Royal Navy personnel died early Wednesday morning when a Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed near Sourton Down, close to Okehampton in Devon, during a training exercise. The incident occurred shortly before 4 a.m., according to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), which confirmed that the three crew members lost their lives and that their families had been informed.

The Merlin Mk4, primarily used for anti-submarine warfare and capable of carrying up to 24 troops, was conducting routine training in difficult weather conditions that included heavy rain, strong winds, and low visibility. The crash site is situated between the Royal Navy’s air bases at Yeovilton in Somerset and Culdrose in Cornwall, near Okehampton Battle Camp, a military training facility for Commando Helicopter Force personnel.

Eyewitness accounts described the helicopter as encountering mechanical difficulties before the crash. Local resident Eddie Amhof reported hearing what sounded like engine failure followed by “an almighty flash of red” lighting up the sky, and then a significant explosion several minutes later. Another witness described the aircraft as a “ball of fire in the sky” before it plunged into a field, resulting in a large explosion on impact.

The crew aboard the Merlin were reportedly two male servicemen and one female pilot, reflecting the Royal Navy’s ongoing integration of female pilots into frontline roles—a relatively rare but increasing presence within the service. Official sources indicated that the helicopter, known by the designation Sword 2 during the exercise, was flying in tandem with another aircraft before it disappeared from radar.

The Royal Navy has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, while multiple emergency services, including several fire crews and specialist units, responded to the scene. RAF Mountain Rescue also attended. The condition of the aircraft’s airframe, which has undergone recent upgrades but is part of an ageing fleet, will form part of the inquiry.

The incident has prompted statements of condolence from senior officials and members of the Royal Family. General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, head of the Royal Navy, expressed his “deep sadness” and extended condolences to the families and naval community. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the crash as “utterly tragic” and thanked emergency responders. Defence Secretary John Healey said he was “devastated by the loss of three service personnel,” noting their service and sacrifice.

The Princess of Wales, Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, also paid tribute, stating that she and her husband, the Prince of Wales, hold the families and friends of the deceased “in our hearts at this very difficult time.” It is understood that King Charles will be contacting the families privately.

This crash marks one of the more serious recent incidents involving the Merlin helicopter. In September 2024, a Merlin Mk4 was forced to ditch into the English Channel during a training exercise, resulting in the death of its pilot, Lieutenant Rhodri Leyshon, while two other crew members survived. Previous Merlin crashes have occurred in 2004 near RNAS Culdrose and in 2000 off the coast of Skye, resulting in injuries and emergency rescues.

Investigations into the cause of the latest crash remain ongoing. The Ministry of Defence has not disclosed the helicopter’s home base or further operational details pending the inquiry.