This snapshot, taken on 30/01/2006, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.

Press Notices

High-tech boost to keep Navy's Merlin fleet flying high

12/01/06

Four The Royal Navy's Merlin helicopters will be fitted with new state of the art technology under a £750 million contract announced today by Lord Drayson, the Defence Procurement Minister.

The contract, awarded to Lockheed Martin UK, will see the Royal Navy's Merlin helicopters upgraded with new, more advanced technology
- improving their already impressive range of abilities and helping support 1,400 jobs across the UK.

The programme is expected to see the updated and improved aircraft coming into service in December 2013 and will ensure a range of technological improvements. The updated Merlin will be a far more potent multi-role helicopter - amongst other improvements it will enable 40 times the number of targets to be tracked compared to the current capability, it will improve submarine detection in shallow water and enhance night operations.

Lord Drayson, Minister for Defence Procurement said:

"This contract will see Merlin get the advanced new technology it needs to face the challenges of the 21st Century.

"The Merlin Mk1 is already a potent aircraft which has proved itself invaluable since it entered service, playing a crucial role during the Iraq conflict. This programme will build on that success. Having 21st Century technology inserted into the Merlin will boost performance and improve its already impressive range of capabilities. It will benefit our front line capability, British industry and the UK taxpayer, who will get excellent value for money from this programme."

Originally built in the 1990s as a primarily anti-submarine aircraft the Merlin has taken on an increasingly wide range of roles and the upgrade programme will help give the Royal Navy far greater operational flexibility.

The insertion of new systems will also mean reductions to support and maintenance costs over the life of the aircraft, which will stay in service until 2029.

Notes to Editors

1. Known as the Merlin Capability Sustainment Programme (MCSP), the overall programme is expected to cost some £850M and will ensure that the Royal Navy's EH101 Merlin Mk1 retains its position as the world's most capable maritime patrol helicopter.

2. For further information please contact Jason Impey at the Defence Procurement Agency Press Office on 0117 913 0637 or the MoD Press Office on 020 7218 7714.

Last Updated: 13 Jan 06