Opposition Leader Jenny Shipley and National's Defence spokesman Max Badford have extended their deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of SAS officer Major John McNutt, who was accidentally killed in Kuwait this morning during a training exercise.

"The families of all defence personnel will be grieving at this tragic accident. It is a poignant reminder of the hidden dangers our military personnel are routinely exposed to," Jenny Shipley said.

"There are no words which can adequately express the admiration I feel for those who put their safety on the line in order to serve their country. Maj McNutt's death is a testament to the bravery of those who serve in our armed services.

National's Defence spokesman Max Bradford has extended sincere condolences to those who served alongside Maj McNutt during his eight year military career, in Christchurch based 2/1 Batallion and 1 NZSAS Group.

"Cameraderie is one of the great strengths of our military personnel. For that same reason a loss such as this will be felt heavily by those who knew Maj McNutt. My thoughts are with those who served alongside this brave soldier," Mr Bradford said.

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