The Daily Star's FREE newsletter is spectacular! Sign up today for the best stories straight to your inbox Sign up today! Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

(Image: GOOGLE)

The Russian helicopter smashed into the sea at 3.30pm local time (2.30pm UK) near the Norwegian Arctic archipelago of Svalbard.

It was due to travel a short distance across the water from Pyramiden to Barentsburg when it was reported missing mid-flight.

The Norway Rescue Service then confirmed the helicopter "came down" just 2km off the coast of Barentsburg.

The rescue team said: "A Russian helicopter with eight people on board have gone down in the Sea 2-3 km from Barentsburg.

(Image: GOOGLE)

"The helicopter was supposed to fly from the Pyramid to Barentsburg.

"(It) was reported missing about at 15:35 and confirmed gone down about at 15:45.

"HRS NR coordinates and will come with more info."

It is not yet known how many injuries or deaths, if any, there are.

But it has been confirmed all eight on board were Russians and that they are all missing.

Norwegian media reports the aircraft was a Russian civilian Mil Mi-8 helicopter.

One rescue service shipm two helicopters and several civilian vessels are taking part in the rescue operation.

MORE TO FOLLOW