A major search and rescue operation is under way after a Royal Navy helicopter crashed into a field in Devon in the early hours of Wednesday, prompting concern for the fate of those on board.
The aircraft, believed to be a Merlin helicopter, came down near Sourton Down, close to Okehampton, shortly before 4am. Dramatic images from the scene showed the front section of the aircraft badly damaged as emergency services descended on the remote crash site.
Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions, Keir Starmer acknowledged the incident and said it would be a “deeply worrying time” for the families of the servicemen involved.
“I am aware of a Royal Navy helicopter crash this morning in Devon,” the Prime Minister told MPs.
“This will be a deeply worrying time for the families and more information will be set out as soon as possible.”
The Merlin is one of the Royal Navy’s most important aviation assets, typically carrying a crew of four and capable of transporting up to 24 troops. The helicopter is used for anti-submarine warfare, troop transport and maritime operations.
A Royal Navy spokesman confirmed an investigation had been launched but declined to provide further details while emergency responders remained at the scene.
“An investigation is under way and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,” the spokesman said.
Witnesses described hearing the aircraft in difficulty moments before the crash.
Eddie Amhof told ITV News that the helicopter appeared to be suffering serious problems before it came down.
“I heard this horrendous noise from a helicopter, it sounded like he was going to pitch on the roof. It was a terrible noise,” he said.
“By the time I got out of bed and got to the window, he’d moved away about half-a-mile.
“And all of a sudden, no noise at all. The engines was gone.”
Mr Amhof said he then saw “an almighty flash of red” as the aircraft crashed.
Police, fire crews and ambulance teams remain at the scene, with a cordon established around the crash site as investigators seek to establish what caused the aircraft to come down.
The incident will raise fresh questions about military aviation safety and comes at a time when the Armed Forces are facing increasing operational demands at home and abroad.
For now, however, the focus remains on the condition of those aboard the aircraft and the anxious wait facing their families as authorities work to establish the full circumstances of the crash.
Leave a Comment