Thu, Oct 04, 2007
First Of Six Acquired From Denmark
British Defense Minister Lord Drayson unveiled the first of six
new Merlin Helicopters Thursday acquired from Denmark, on a visit
to RAF Benson. The Minister also announced the establishment of a
new RAF Merlin Squadron -- 78 Squadron -- to be based at
Benson.
The MoD announced in March 2007 it would purchase six additional
Merlin helicopters from Denmark at a cost of £175M ($327
million US) in order to deliver a rapid increase in helicopters for
operations. The six helicopters have been delivered to the UK and
are undergoing work at Augusta Westland to integrate them into the
RAF fleet. They will be available for operations early next
year.
At AugustaWestland, the UK Merlins will be modified for
operations and will have the latest generation of advanced
rotor-blades which will enhance their speed, range and lift.
This will greatly enhance performance even in demanding
environments like Iraq and Afghanistan.
"Battlefield support helicopters are a vital capability for
military commanders. I am committed to making sure we deliver the
equipment our Armed Forces need, and these new helicopters will
increase the Merlin fleet by a quarter," Lord Drayson said. "By
acquiring these helicopters from Denmark we have been able to speed
up the delivery of extra helicopter capability, which will allow
commanders more choices at their disposal when they plan for
operations.
"I am also very pleased to announce that 78 Squadron is being
established at RAF Benson to operate these helicopters. RAF Benson
already operates the RAF's existing Merlin fleet and the new
Squadron will add to the capability at the base."
In addition to the Merlins, the MoD also announced this year it
would convert eight Chinook Mk3 helicopters. The first Merlin
helicopters are expected to be available within a year, and the
first Chinooks within two years. Both the Merlins and Chinooks will
be fitted for operations but not all will be deployed at any one
time.
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