Merlin Mk2 helicopters complete Exercise Deep Blue
Nine Royal Navy Merlin Mk2 helicopters have taken part in Exercise Deep Blue in the Atlantic Ocean, simulating their anti-submarine warfare, maritime patrol and casualty evacuation capabilities.
Throughout the Exercise, the Merlin aircraft were embarked on HMS Illustrious. Aircrews and engineers worked round the clock alongside pilots and aircrew operating on a non-stop ‘sleep-eat-fly-sleep’ rotation to support three aircraft aloft at all times with two on ready status.
The Merlin Mk2 are fitted with advanced glass cockpits and improved aircrew consoles and avionics with advanced touch-screen displays and an improved ability to detect and track targets and share data with other aircraft and ships while airborne. These improvements enable the helicopters to carry out counter-piracy and casualty evacuation missions.
The aircraft are part of a programme being carried out to convert 30 Merlin MK1 helicopters to the Mk2 model. Lockheed Martin UK is delivering updated mission systems and training facility, while AgustaWestland is responsible for upgrading the avionics and cockpit systems.
The first aircraft entered service and achieved full operational capability in May. Seventeen aircraft have been delivered to Naval Squadrons 824 and 820 at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose, and an additional four are in trials and test at Qinetiq Boscombe Down airfield.
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