Britain's Royal Navy: three members died in helicopter crash during training

Britain's Royal Navy said three of its members have died in a helicopter crash during a training exercise in southwest England.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the deaths were "utterly tragic."

Britain's Royal Navy said the helicopter went down in a field in the county of Devon in England just before 4 am UK time on Wednesday.

The British navy's head General Gwyn Jenkins, said he was deeply saddened to share the news that three crewmembers onboard a Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 helicopter have died after the crash.

He said an investigation is under way and further updates will be provided later.

The British Ministry of Defence said the families of the service personnel killed have been informed.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the deaths were "utterly tragic."

British Prime Minister KEIR STARMER: "Mr. speaker, I am also aware of a Royal Navy helicopter crash this morning in Devon. This will be a deeply worrying time for the families. And more information will be set out as soon as possible."

Merlin helicopters, such as the Merlin Mk4 involved in the incident, usually have a crew of four and can carry up to 24 troops.

The Merlin helicopter is primarily used for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, cargo transfers and maritime patrol.