EH101 Merlin
Joined: Mar 2007
Aviation Qualifications: Military (Retired)
Posts: 29
Likes: 2
From: Oxford
TC - As I understand it, the Merlin’s redundancy was designed in to enable routine independent long-range ASW and ASUW operations from frigate-sized ships by day and night with a single pilot – roles which, despite its excellent qualities in the SH role, the CH-47 would not be capable of performing.
Those same qualities in its intended role make the Merlin a capable long-range maritime SAR platform, which is amply illustrated by the mission described by Merlin Driver. Personally, although I have huge affection for, and over 3000 hours on, the Sea King I would not wish to go back to its simplex AFCS and comparatively limited sensor fit.
Finally, while the Merlin certainly has its limitations in the SH role when compared with the CH-47, the boys and girls on 28 and 78 Squadrons have done, and are doing, a splendid job and are very much in harm’s way .
Those same qualities in its intended role make the Merlin a capable long-range maritime SAR platform, which is amply illustrated by the mission described by Merlin Driver. Personally, although I have huge affection for, and over 3000 hours on, the Sea King I would not wish to go back to its simplex AFCS and comparatively limited sensor fit.
Finally, while the Merlin certainly has its limitations in the SH role when compared with the CH-47, the boys and girls on 28 and 78 Squadrons have done, and are doing, a splendid job and are very much in harm’s way .
Last edited by Xmit; 17th April 2013 at 11:17. Reason: Incorrect spacing
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 614
Likes: 0
From: On the Rump of Pendle Hill Lancashi
The Merlins were used in Iraq to move the UK Army troops to various spots, but after only a few weeks several of them were grounded due to cracks appearing in some significant areas, ..has all this been cleared up now?
Peter R-B
Peter R-B
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,796
Likes: 1
From: 1 Dunghill Mansions, Putney
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 236
Likes: 4
From: All over the place
Easy come, easy go. Indonesia EH-101 order confirmed and cancelled in the same week!
Jokowi cancels European helicopter purchase | The Jakarta Post
Jokowi cancels European helicopter purchase | The Jakarta Post
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 236
Likes: 4
From: All over the place
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 1,735
Likes: 21
From: Used to be God's own County
Atleast there should always be a 101 available for static displays :-)
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 236
Likes: 4
From: All over the place
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 21
From: Beyond the black stump!
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 236
Likes: 4
From: All over the place
Who knows where this is going now? Charges have been filed against the former Chief of the Air Force, the agents, AW and it's former CEO and the former Chairman of Finmeccanica. A long way from being resolved.
https://scroll.in/latest/849291/agus...gi-nine-others
https://scroll.in/latest/849291/agus...gi-nine-others
