RN starts operational training on Merlin Crowsnest ASaC helicopter

The RN has begun to receive the new Merlin Crowsnest ASaC capability. (Royal Navy/Crown Copyright)

UK Royal Navy (RN) aircrews have begun operational training on Merlin HM2 helicopters configured for the Crowsnest airborne surveillance and control (ASaC) role-fit ahead of a first deployment in mid-2021.

Designed to replace the capability previously provided by the RN’s Sea King ASaC7 (SKASaC) helicopter, the Crowsnest programme is delivering a role-fit allowing the Merlin HM2 anti-submarine warfare helicopter to be converted to provide organic airborne battlespace management and long-range surveillance in support of the maritime task group. Lockheed Martin UK Integrated Systems was in November 2016 awarded a GBP269 million (USD368 million) Demonstration and Manufacture contract covering the production of 10 Crowsnest radar/mission system kits, modifications to existing Merlin HM2 helicopters, training, and initial support.

Thales UK and Leonardo Helicopters are key partners to Lockheed Martin UK: Thales is providing the radar/mission system (evolved from the Cerberus mission system and Searchwater 2000AEW radar previously fitted to the SKASaC) and Leonardo is responsible for Merlin air vehicle modifications.

A first flight at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose in Cornwall on 19 March 2021 marked the formal introduction to service of Crowsnest. Three aircraft have now been delivered to 820 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) at RNAS Culdrose: these will form part of the carrier air group embarked on HMS Queen Elizabeth for the forthcoming CSG21 carrier strike group deployment.