In what will come across as a really tragic development, one person has been confirmed dead and seven missing after two Japanese military helicopters crashed.

The two helicopters crashed after possibly colliding, officials said, according to the Guardian UK.

Japan’s self-defence force spokesperson said the crash took place late on Saturday.

The spokesperson confirmed that one person was recovered and later confirmed dead.

Japan’s defence minister, Minoru Kihara, said rescuers “spotted what are believed to be part of the aircraft in the sea, and we believe that the two helicopters crashed”.

“At this point the cause is unknown, but firstly we do our best to save lives.”

He said the helicopters were “doing drills to counter submarines at night”.