Australian soldier killed during parachute jump

The Australian Ministry of Defence has confirmed in a statement with deep regret the passing of Special Air Service Regiment soldier Lachlan Muddle following a parachute training incident on the evening of 11 May 2026.

The loss of Warrant Officer Class Two is "a tragedy and deeply felt by the Army family and across the broader Defence community," it stated.

According to the ministry, another Australian army member sustained minor injuries in the incident and did not require hospital treatment. 

“Our highest priority is to support Warrant Officer Class Two Muddle’s family and all members involved in this tragic accident. Our thoughts are with them, their friends and the Regiment as they grieve his loss. We request that the privacy of Defence members and families is respected during this difficult time,” it added.

The ministry also said it remains committed “to ensuring the safety of its personnel during all training activities.”

As a precaution, the Australian Defence Force has suspended all parachuting training activities temporarily.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov