6 British soldiers killed in Czech helicopter crash

Tragedy reported by Sky News today; condolences to the families and friends.

SOLDIERS KILLED IN CRASH

Six British soldiers have been killed in a military helicopter crash in the Czech Republic.

The Czech Defence Ministry said the soldiers were taking part in a Czech-British military exercise when the crash happened near the city of Brno.

The MoD confirmed two crew members and four passengers, all miltary personnel, died in the crash.

It said relatives were being informed but was unable to confirm local reports that the helicopter had struck overhead wires.

The exercise, called Flying Rhino, began on Tuesday and was due to run until September 17. RAF Harrier GR 7 and Hawk planes and Lynx helicopters were involved.

Officials said the accident happened around midday London time on Thursday, close to an airport at Namesti nad Oslavou, 19 miles west of Brno.

The helicopter was reportedly flying close to the ground.

Rescue workers at the scene told the Czech news agency CTK that the six died in a fire that erupted after the crash.

The Lynx has a history of engine and rotor problems, with at least 15 servicemen being killed since the 1970s.