Former Royal Navy Engineer Sues MOD Over Hearing Damage from F-35 Landing

Harry Jefferson, a former Royal Navy engineer, is suing the Ministry of Defence (MOD) for approximately £500,000, claiming that his hearing was permanently damaged when an F-35 fighter jet landed near him on the HMS Queen Elizabeth supercarrier in June 2021. At the time, Jefferson was refueling a Merlin helicopter on the flight deck when the supersonic jet landed just meters away, exposing him to extreme noise and heat. His colleague, Reece Colwell, is also pursuing a claim, though his expected payout is significantly lower as he remains in service.

The IndependentThe Telegraph - UK

During the incident, Jefferson and Colwell were initially instructed to move to a safe area due to the incoming F-35. However, they were later directed to return to their tasks, which led to their exposure to the jet's intense noise and heat. Jefferson reported experiencing pain in his ears, ringing, and a noticeable change in his hearing. Both men were subsequently diagnosed with "explosive ear trauma" and have since suffered from permanent tinnitus and difficulties hearing in noisy environments.

The Telegraph - UK

The MOD has acknowledged a breach of duty, admitting that the two engineers should not have been working so close to the landing jet. However, the MOD is contesting the amount of damages being claimed. In a pre-trial hearing, Jefferson's barrister, Stuart McCracken, emphasized the significant impact on Jefferson's career, stating that his claim could exceed £500,000 due to the loss of his naval career at a young age. The case is set to proceed to trial at Central London County Court unless a settlement is reached beforehand.

The Telegraph - UK

Following the incident, Jefferson was declared permanently "medically limited deployable," which effectively ended his career as an air engineer technician. He cited frustration with the downgrading process and limited promotion prospects as reasons for leaving the Navy. In contrast, Colwell has continued his service, which will likely result in a lower damages claim for him.

The Independent

The case is scheduled to return to court for a full trial, where the extent of damages will be determined. The legal fees for both parties are expected to total around £443,000, highlighting the significant financial implications of the case.

The Independent

• “The F-35 landed within metres of them. The claimants attempted to turn their heads away from the heat. They experienced pain in their ears, ringing and a change in their hearing.” — Stuart McCracken, Barrister

The Telegraph - UK

• “His condition will be permanent,” — Stuart McCracken, Barrister

The Telegraph - UK

This lawsuit underscores the potential risks faced by military personnel during operations and raises questions about safety protocols on naval vessels.

The Independent