My understanding of Merlin ops in Iraq are that the aircraft is doing particularly well on four counts:
It has proved to be the most reliable helicopter in theatre, with 85% availability. Engines are lasting 3 or 4 times as long as other helos;
Its low noise signature;
Its three engines, giving it superior one engine inop performance;
And its active vibration damping, which on at least one occasion allowed an aircraft that had taken a ground fire hit on a blade to return safely in a state that would probably have caused another helicopter to cut short its sortie.
Anybody know different?
airsound