I thought it was time to reintroduce some aviation content
The Norwegian frigates will be equipped with anti-submarine capable helicopters. A decision on what type of helicopter the Norwegian frigates will be operating has not yet been made.
‘The Norwegian frigates will be equipped with helicopters with anti-submarine capability. At the same time, it is important that we consider the rapid technological developments, and explore the possibilities for utilizing unmanned platforms. This is something we will look further into together with British partners,’ said Sandvik.
This is going to be interesting,
Luftforsvaret took delivery of its final
AW101 (aka SAR Queen) in June but these are utility/SAR not ASW aircraft, it has ordered six MH-60Rs "Initially, the helicopters will be used by the Norwegian Coast Guard, but they will also be prepared for equipment for anti-submarine operations." (
https://www.regjeringen.no/en/aktuel...tre/id2966519/). As we know the planned OSD for Merlin HM2 is being extended to 2040. If pushed, my money is on more MH-60s. However, if there is to effectively be a combined Norwegian/UK T26 fleet surely a common ASW RW platform makes more sense? If the extra defence funding actually materialises should the UK be looking at early replacement of Merlin HM2, potentially optionally crewed or uncrewed and using these on all its T26s rather than a Wildcat/Merlin mix. My understanding is the OSD for Wildcat HMA is 2045 following a mid-2030s MLU.