EH101 Merlin
The RAF’s latest troop transport helicopter entered squadron service yesterday at a ceremony watched by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire.
The Merlin HC Mark III can fly further and faster and carry heavier loads than the existing RAF Puma helicopters it will operate alongside.
Defence Procurement Minister Lord Bach said: “This aircraft is very advanced and its combination of agility, low noise signature, high reliability and 24-hour a day all-weather capability will enhance our battlefield capabilities significantly. “Merlin HC Mark III has been procured under a £750 million programme which is running within budget. The aircraft can carry up to 24 fully-equipped troops, internal cargo or several tonnes of cargo underslung.”
The aircraft will equip 28 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at RAF Benson in Oxfordshire. The Merlin HC Mk III weighs more than 14 tonnes, has three engines and has a top speed of over 150 knots. It will enter operational service in early 2003 following completion of extensive trials with 28 Squadron.
22 aircraft were ordered from GKN Westland Helicopters in June 1995. The aircraft is a military utility version of the UK-Italian Merlin HM Mark I anti-submarine helicopter, which is in service with the Royal Navy.