Navy receives first upgraded AW101 Merlin HC Mk3
The first of seven upgraded AW101 Merlin HC Mk3 helicopters has been delivered to the Royal Navy as part of Phase 1 of the Merlin Life Sustainment Programme (MLSP), AgustaWestland announced on 19 October.
The MLSP programme will see 25 AW101 Merlin HC Mk3/3A aircraft converted to Merlin HC Mk4/4A configuration for the Royal Navy in two phases as a replacement for the Sea King HC Mk4 in the amphibious support role.
Phase 1 will cover the upgrade of seven Merlin HC Mk3 aircraft to provide an interim capability while the Mk4 aircraft are converted. They will then be converted to Mk4 standard.
The first AW101 Merlin HC Mk3 aircraft has undergone a number of modifications, including the introduction of a folding main rotor head, naval lashing rings, revised twin wheel main undercarriage for ship operations, and fast roping capability. Various communications upgrades including the introduction of an ‘I Band’ transponder have also been carried out.
The upgraded aircraft completed its first flight on 8 April 2015 and completed flight trials at the end of August. Following formal Release to Service in September the aircraft has now been delivered and will be followed by six further aircraft to provide an Initial Operating Capability (IOC) in Spring 2016, when the final Sea King HC Mk4 aircraft will be withdrawn from service.
Defence Minister Philip Dunne said: ‘Delivery of this first upgraded Merlin marks an important milestone in our £330 million investment in the fleet, which will give our Royal Navy a total of 25 Merlin MK4 helicopters by 2020. These upgraded helicopters will improve the capabilities of the Merlins for their amphibious roles, including flying from our new aircraft carriers. This work on the fleet has sustained hundreds of jobs across British industry, including in the South West.’
AgustaWestland received the MLSP contract in January 2014.
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