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.

FMI: www.mod.uk