Royal Navy upgrades Merlin helicopters
An associated synthetic training environment was delivered alongside the MK4/4A aircraft. (Photo: UK Crown Copyright)
The RN’s Merlin helicopters have been upgraded by Leonardo Helicopters and are cleared to operate from RN aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships and Type 23 frigates, the UK MoD announced on 2 December.
Main upgrades on the Merlin include a new folding main rotor head and folding trail which allows two of the aircraft to fit just one of the carrier’s aircraft lifts and an improved defensive aid suit. The latter includes a laser-guided weapons warning and locating system.
A total of 19 Mk3 and six Mk3A aircraft have been upgraded to Mk4/4A standard to ensure the Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) can provide air support to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines and other British forces.
The 25 Merlins are now considered to be the world’s most advanced amphibious battlefield helicopters.
An associated synthetic training environment was delivered alongside the MK4/4A aircraft.
A synthetic trainer includes two new pilot simulators, a procedures trainer and a rear crew training device, employing augmented reality systems.
The updates were carried out under the single-sourced Merlin Life Sustainment Programme (MLSP) negotiated by the MoD’s Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) body.
More from Defence Helicopter
-
Royal Navy helicopter crews transfer control of UAS in European first
Using technology supplied by QinetiQ, two Royal Navy helicopter crews successfully exchanged control of a UAS while in flight.
-
Leonardo wins Canadian helicopter upgrade programme
The upgrade contract will ensure that the Candian helicopters are compliant with future technological requirements.
-
Guatemala receives Bell Subaru helicopters
The latest version of the Bell 412 helicopter has improved performance and weight capacity and will support Guatemala in various missions.
-
Algeria expresses interest in AW249 while AW139 deal remains in limbo
Leonardo and Algeria hope to seal the AW139 deal in 2023 while Italy and the North African country further strengthen defence ties.
-
Nigeria to receive new attack helicopters
The Nigerian Air Force is to receive more than 50 attack air assets to strengthen its ability to fight insecurity within its borders.
-
Italian Army takes its final NH90 helicopter on order
NHIndustries and Leonardo have completed deliveries of NH90 TTH helicopters to the Italian Army.