It is part of the process to bring this to a happy conclusion and for Officer Kosh who died carrying out his duty

MoD police spokesman

An MoD police spokesman said the exhumation, which started at 0700 BST, was being carried out so Mr Kosh's family could lay him to rest.

He said: "As a result of the alleged offences that took place and the subsequent police investigation, the police and War Graves Commission are carrying out the exhumation.

"It is part of the process to bring this to a happy conclusion and for Officer Kosh who died carrying out his duty."

On 14 August bones were discovered at the crash site at Rye Marsh Farm near Winchelsea, in East Sussex, when the Tempest aircraft was dug up by the MoD.

DNA test

It is believed the plane was stripped of its engine, instruments and cannon, while personal belongings from Mr Kosh, including a bracelet and coins, had been stolen.

Mr Kosh's family had believed he had been laid to rest at Hawkinge Cemetery in 1944.

If the remains are found to have the same DNA match as those discovered in the plane, it is expected that members of his family will hold a second funeral.

Andrew Saunders, 46, of Hastings, East Sussex, faces eight charges including tampering with the remains of a pilot, an offence under the Protection of Military Remains Act.

A plea and directions hearing will take place at Lewes Crown Court on 9 November.