Warrant Officer Class Two Lachlan Muddle Remembered After Jervis Bay Airfield Training Accident During Advanced Free-Fall Course
Warrant Officer Class Two Lachlan Muddle, an Australian Special Air Service Regiment veteran with 30 years of service, died after a mid-air training collision at Jervis Bay Airfield on Monday evening, May 11, 2026.
The incident occurred about 500 feet above the ground during a six-week advanced free-fall course on the NSW South Coast.
Lachlan took part in a night-vision training exercise when two highly skilled paratroopers collided after their parachutes had deployed.
The other soldier sustained minor injuries and provided medical aid on the ground, while Lachlan’s injuries proved fatal.
Lachlan joined the Australian Defence Force in 1994 and spent most of a distinguished career in the SAS, completing five overseas deployments, including Afghanistan.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles noted the risks service members accept while training to protect national readiness.
The Australian Defence Force has paused parachuting operations nationwide while investigators review the circumstances.
Family, colleagues, and the wider Defence community now remember Lachlan for leadership, skill, sharp wit, and deep commitment to fellow service members.
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