AgustaWestland EH101
Encyclopedia
The AgustaWestland AW101 (rebranded from EH101 in June 2007) is a medium-lift helicopter
for military applications but also marketed for civil use. The helicopter was developed as a joint venture between Westland Helicopters
in the UK and Agusta
in Italy (now merged as AgustaWestland
). The aircraft is manufactured at the AgustaWestland factories in Yeovil
, England and Vergiate
, Italy. The name Merlin is used for AW101s in the British, Danish and Portuguese militaries.
(ASW) helicopter to replace the Royal Navy
's Westland Sea King
s. Westland responded with a design designated the WG.34 that was then approved for development. Meanwhile, the Marina Militare
(Italian Navy) was also seeking a replacement for its (Agusta-built) Sea Kings, leading Agusta to discussions with Westland about the possibility of a joint development. This culminated in the joint venture being finalised in November 1979 and a new London-based company, EH Industries Limited (EHI), being formed in June the following year to manage the project.
As the design studies progressed, EHI became aware of a broader market for an aircraft with the same capabilities as those required by the British and Italian navies. On 12 June 1981, the UK confirmed their participation, with an initial budget of £20 million to develop nine pre-series examples. A major agreement securing funding for the development of the EH101 program was signed by both the British and Italian governments in 1984. At the 1985 Paris Air Show
at Le Bourget, Agusta showed a mock-up of a utility version of the new helicopter, leading to a more generalised design that could be customised. After a lengthy development, the first prototype flew on 9 October 1987.
In 1989 demand for the EH101 was uncertain, the American Blackhawk was providing competition with potential export customers, and neither Britain or Italy had placed production orders yet. The Canadian government had expressed considerable interest in 1991 in acquiring up to 43 EH101s to replace their own aging naval helicopters; however with the end of the Cold War
they were branded as excessive by several politicians and the acquisition was aborted in 1993. Britain maintained its commitment to the project, ordering 22 EH101 helicopters in February 1995; Italy also pressed ahead with its order for 16 EH101s in October 1995.
The first group of production EH101s for the RAF began arriving in 1997. In 2002 Westland made an unsolicited and unsuccessful offer to provide the MoD with an enhanced version of the Merlin to meet the UK's demand for lift capability. Westland and Agusta merged together to form AgustaWestland International Limited in July 2000, closing down EHI as a separate entity shortly afterwards. Consequently in June 2007 the EH101 was re-branded as the AW101.
The AW101 Merlin is well known for its extensive use of composite materials. The modular aluminium-lithium alloy
fuselage structure is damage and crash resistant, with multiple primary and secondary load paths. Active vibration control of the structural response (ACSR) uses a vibration-canceling technique to reduce the stress on the airframe. The AW101 is rated to operate in temperatures ranging from −40 to +50 °C. High flotation tyres permit operation from soft or rough terrain. The main rotor blades are a derivative of the BERP rotor blade design, which improves the aerodynamic efficiency at the blade tips, as well as reducing the blade's noise signature.
The cockpit is fitted with armoured seats for the crew, and can withstand an impact velocity of over 10 m/s. Dual flight controls are provided, though the AW101 can be flown by a single person. The pilot's instrument displays include six full colour high-definition screens and an optional mission display. A digital map and forward-looking infrared (FLIR) system display can also be installed.
turboshaft
s used by the UK, Japan, Denmark and Portugal; or three 1,491 kW General Electric CT7-6 turboshafts in Italy, Canada, and Japan. The Rolls-Royce RTM322 engine was specifically designed for the AW101, and was later used in other helicopters such as the WAH-64 Apache. Engine inlet particle separator systems provide protection when operating in sandy environments. Each engine is supplied by a separate 1,074 litre self-sealing fuel tank using dual booster pumps. A fourth tank acts as a reservoir supply, topping up the main tanks during flight; while a fifth transfer tank can be added to increase range, as can airborne refuelling. The engines power an 18.59 metre diameter five-bladed main rotor. The rotor blades are constructed from carbon/glass with nomex
honeycomb and rohacell foam, edged with titanium
alloy. Computer control of the engines via the aircraft EECU's (electronic engine control unit) allows the AW101 to hover reliably in winds of over 80 km/h.
The second small apparent exhaust pipe on each engine is the blowoff from a rotary separator to remove grit from the intake air.
A chin FLIR
is fitted to some variants. The AW101 (excluding the ASM MK1) is equipped with chaff
and flare dispensers, directed infrared countermeasures (infrared jammers), ESM (electronic support measures, in the form of RF [radio frequency] heads), and a laser detection and warning system.
It has two hard points for weapon carriers, on which the HM Mk1 model can carry four Sting Ray torpedo
es or Mk 11 Mod 3 depth charge
s, though at present cannot use the Sea Skua
missile. The Mk1, Mk3 and 3a variants can mount General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) in up to 5 locations in the main cabin pointing out of door and window apertures.
The cabin floor and rear ramp are fitted with flush tie-down points, a semi-automatic cargo release unit (SACRU). The ramp, 1.91 by 2.3 m (6.3 by 7.5 ), can take a 3050 kilograms (6,724.1 lb) load, allowing it to carry vehicles such as Land Rover
s. A cargo hook under the fuselage can carry external loads of 5440 kilograms (11,993.1 lb) via the use of a SACRU. A rescue hoist and a hover trim controller are fitted at the cargo door.
Merlin HAS.1 but soon changed to Merlin HM1. The first fully operational Merlin was delivered on 17 May 1997, entering service on 2 June 2000. All aircraft were delivered by the end of 2002, and are operated by four Fleet Air Arm
squadrons, all based at RNAS Culdrose
in Cornwall: 814 NAS
, 820 NAS
, 824 NAS
and 829 NAS
. 700 NAS was the Merlin Operational Evaluation Unit from 2000 to 2008.
In March 2004, RN Merlins were grounded following an incident at RNAS Culdrose when the tail rotor failed on one of them. Investigations revealed that this was due to tail rotor hub manufacturing defects. Flights resumed the following year.
The Merlin HM1 has been cleared to operate from the Royal Navy's aircraft carrier
s, amphibious assault ship
s, Type 23 frigate
s and a number of RFA
vessels including the Fort Victoria
Class. It is also intended to equip the forthcoming Type 45 destroyer
s. A Capability Sustainment Programme is currently in place to upgrade 30 aircraft to the Merlin HM2 standard. This will include a new mission system and digital cockpit. It had been planned to include the remaining 8 airframes but this has now been dropped for financial reasons while alternative roles were sought for these aircraft.
The UK had long considered the Merlin as a replacement for the Sea King ASaC7
in the Airborne Early Warning (AEW) role. On 15 December 2009, the future helicopter plans were announced. The RAF Merlin HC3 and HC3As will be moved to the Commando Helicopter Force replacing 'junglie' Sea King Commando helicopter, these helicopters being replaced with Chinooks in RAF service. The eight spare airframes will be refitted with equipment from the Sea King ASaC7, possibly designated Merlin ASaC 5. Sea King will also be replaced in the SAR role by a PFI deal, resulting in the retirement of Sea King, leaving the Navy operating Lynx Wildcat
and Merlin, the RAF operating Puma
and Chinook, and Army operating Lynx Wildcat and Apache. The Lynx helicopter has been seen as a useful complement to the newer Merlins, however it had been mooted in 1995 than phasing out Lynx for an all-Merlin fleet in maritime use would be plausible.
It is intended that 846 NAS reforms with ex RAF Merlin HC3s in 2015. They would be followed by 845 NAS operating the fully navalised Merlin HC4 in 2017.
Royal Navy Merlins have seen action in the Caribbean, on counter-narcotics and hurricane support duties. They have also been active in Iraq, providing support to British and coalition troops on the ground, as well as maritime security duties in the North Persian Gulf
.
Merlin HC3, the first of which entered service with No. 28 Squadron RAF
, based at RAF Benson
, in January 2001. The type is equipped with extended-range fuel tanks and is capable of air-to-air refueling; however, due to the lack of a suitable UK tanker aircraft, this capability has not been cleared for use. It also differs from the Royal Navy version by having double-wheel main landing gear, whereas the RN version only has a single wheel on each of the main gears.
Depth maintenance of Merlin HC3 is carried out at the Merlin Depth Maintenance Facility
at RNAS Culdrose. The first operational deployment was to the Balkans
in early 2003. They were deployed to southern Iraq as part of Operation Telic
until July 2009 when British Forces withdrew from Iraq.
To alleviate a shortfall in operational helicopters the British Ministry of Defence acquired six DMRH AW101s from Denmark in 2007. These were assigned to the RAF with the designation Merlin HC3A. As part of the deal, the UK Ministry of Defence ordered six new-build replacements for the Royal Danish Air Force. In December 2007, a second Merlin squadron, No. 78 Squadron
was formed at Benson. Five Merlin Mk3s are operating in Afghanistan in 2010; their initial deployment was criticised as they allegedly lack Kevlar armour, the aircraft are now fully fitted with ballistic protection armour supplied by Permali Gloucester Limited. All RAF Merlin HC3/3As are to be converted to HC4/4A configuration and passed to the Royal Navy.
The first Italian Navy production helicopter (MM81480) was first flown on 4 October 1999 and was officially presented to the press on 6 December 1999 at the Agusta factory. Deliveries to the Italian Navy started at the beginning of 2001 and were completed by 2006. Italian EH101s operate from a variety of ships, including aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships. The 9th ASW helicopter was delivered on August 2009.
The AW101 was chosen for CSAR program, 12 + 3 option, of Aeronautica Militare (Air Force) for replacement of HH-3F.
announced the purchase of eight EH101s for SAR duties and six tactical troop transports. The last of the 14 EH101s was delivered 1 March 2007 and the first SAR EH101s became operational in late April 2007. The Danish Mk 512s have a MTOW of 15,600 kg.
In 2007, the British Ministry of Defence acquired the six troop transport AW101s from Denmark to alleviate a shortfall in British operational helicopters. In exchange, the British government ordered six new-build helicopters from AgustaWestland as replacements for the Royal Danish Air Force.
On 28 January 2008, one Danish AW101 broke the drive shaft from one engine to the gear box and made an emergency landing at Billund Airport. Following this incident the Danish fleet was grounded as a safety precaution. The incident provoked national debate about the future of the EH101 in Danish service and whether it made sense to acquire different helicopters, since the EH101 had very low availability of roughly 30% due to mechanical issues. AgustaWestland in turn blamed the Danes for ordering spare parts very late and not keeping enough staff to properly service the helicopters. In April 2008, RDAF reported considerable improvements in operational availability of over 50%, citing improved service from AW (speedy delivery of spare parts) and increased proficiency of ground crews as responsible. Number 6 replacement for the helicopters taken over by British RAF was delivered January 20th 2010.
has operated Merlins since 24 February 2005, in transport, search and rescue, combat search and rescue, fisheries surveillance and maritime surveillance missions. The 12 aircraft, in three versions, gradually replaced the Aérospatiale Puma
in those roles. Portuguese Merlins are painted in a tactical green and brown camouflage.
The main role of the Portuguese AW101 is search and rescue in Portugal's maritime zone. AW101s are on constant alert at three bases: Montijo
(near Lisbon), Lajes Field
, Azores
and Porto Santo Island
.
ordered 14 aircraft in 2003 to use in both the AMCM (Airborne Mine Counter-Measures) and transport roles. The AW101 was modified by Kawasaki Heavy Industries
, and the Japan Defense Agency designated the model MCH-101. Characteristics of this model were automated folding of the rotor and tail, and an active anti-vibration system.
AgustaWestland, Kawasaki and Marubeni
entered a general agreement in 2002. Kawasaki began assembly of the CH-101 and the MCH-101 in 2003. The MEXT
uses the CH-101 on its Antarctic transportation missions. Kawasaki began licensed production of the Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM322 turboshaft engines in 2005. The first MCH-101 was delivered to the Self-Defense Force on March 3, 2006.
The MCH-101 and CH-101 will replace the MH-53E (S-80-M-1)
for AMCM, and the Sikorsky S-61
in a support role for Japanese Antarctic observation missions. AgustaWestland received an order for 14 MCH-101 and CH-101, and another 12 aircraft will be assembled by Kawasaki in Japan. Under agreement between Marubeni and AgustaWestland, a Spare Parts Depot was established in Japan to provide support for its MCH-101 and CH-101 fleet.
Norway has expressed an interest in the AW101 as a candidate for the Norwegian All Weather Search and Rescue Helicopter (NAWSARH) programme, that is planned to replace the Westland Sea King Mk.43B
of the Royal Norwegian Air Force
in 2015. The other candidates for the NAWSARH contract of 10-12 helicopters are Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey
, Eurocopter EC225, NHIndustries NH-90
and Sikorsky S-92
. Iceland also cooperates with Norway in this programme and is interested in 3-4 helicopters to replace its fleet of Super Puma helicopters.
South Korea has recognised the need to modernise their airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) maritime helicopter fleet, and the AW101 is one of the helicopters being studied for the role.
In November 2007, Algeria signed a contract for six AW101 helicopters. This is one of several deals that may potentially follow according to the MOD.
AgustaWestland developed a luxury variant of the AW101, the AW101 VVIP (Very Very Important Person, i.e. a head of state), targeted at business and VIP customers. A Saudi Arabian customer has ordered two VVIP AW101s.
The United States Marine Corps
has acquired two AW101 (VH-71) helicopters as part of its efforts to replace its Marine One
helicopters under the VXX
program. However the project itself was halted when funding on the programme was cut on 6 April 2009, though it is likely to see a revival.
India has ordered 12 AW101 helicopters, for the Indian President and Prime Minister. The AW101 was selected after competing against the Sikorsky S-92 "Superhawk" in field trials in 2008. One particular requirement was that the helicopter have "a high tail boom" to allow the Prime Minister's car to come closer to the rear exit staircase for reduced exposure to threats.
:
Helicopter
A helicopter is a type of rotorcraft in which lift and thrust are supplied by one or more engine-driven rotors. This allows the helicopter to take off and land vertically, to hover, and to fly forwards, backwards, and laterally...
for military applications but also marketed for civil use. The helicopter was developed as a joint venture between Westland Helicopters
Westland Helicopters
Westland Helicopters was a British aerospace company. Originally Westland Aircraft, the company focused on helicopters after the Second World War. It merged with several other British firms in 1961...
in the UK and Agusta
Agusta
Agusta is an Italian helicopter manufacturer. It is based in Samarate, Northern Italy. It is a subsidiary of Finmeccanica. The company was founded by Count Giovanni Agusta in 1923, who flew his first airplane in 1907...
in Italy (now merged as AgustaWestland
AgustaWestland
AgustaWestland is an Anglo-Italian helicopter design and manufacturing company. It was formed in July 2000 when Finmeccanica S.p.A. and GKN plc agreed to merge their respective helicopter subsidiaries to form AgustaWestland with Finmeccanica and GKN each holding a 50% share.AgustaWestland is now a...
). The aircraft is manufactured at the AgustaWestland factories in Yeovil
Yeovil
Yeovil is a town and civil parish in south Somerset, England. The parish had a population of 27,949 at the 2001 census, although the wider urban area had a population of 42,140...
, England and Vergiate
Vergiate
Vergiate is a comune in the Province of Varese in the Italian region Lombardy, located about 45 km northwest of Milan and about 15 km southwest of Varese...
, Italy. The name Merlin is used for AW101s in the British, Danish and Portuguese militaries.
Development
In Spring 1977, the UK Ministry of Defence issued a requirement for an anti-submarine warfareAnti-submarine warfare
Anti-submarine warfare is a branch of naval warfare that uses surface warships, aircraft, or other submarines to find, track and deter, damage or destroy enemy submarines....
(ASW) helicopter to replace the Royal Navy
Royal Navy
The Royal Navy is the naval warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Founded in the 16th century, it is the oldest service branch and is known as the Senior Service...
's Westland Sea King
Westland Sea King
The Westland WS-61 Sea King is a British licence-built version of the American Sikorsky S-61 helicopter of the same name, built by Westland Helicopters. The aircraft differs considerably from the American version, with Rolls-Royce Gnome engines , British made anti-submarine warfare systems and a...
s. Westland responded with a design designated the WG.34 that was then approved for development. Meanwhile, the Marina Militare
Marina Militare
The Italian Navy is the navy of the Italian Republic. It is one of the four branches of military forces of Italy; formed in 1946, from what remained of the Regia Marina . As of 2008, the Italian Navy had 35,200 active personnel with 180 commissioned ships, 19 Floating Docks, and 123 aircraft...
(Italian Navy) was also seeking a replacement for its (Agusta-built) Sea Kings, leading Agusta to discussions with Westland about the possibility of a joint development. This culminated in the joint venture being finalised in November 1979 and a new London-based company, EH Industries Limited (EHI), being formed in June the following year to manage the project.
As the design studies progressed, EHI became aware of a broader market for an aircraft with the same capabilities as those required by the British and Italian navies. On 12 June 1981, the UK confirmed their participation, with an initial budget of £20 million to develop nine pre-series examples. A major agreement securing funding for the development of the EH101 program was signed by both the British and Italian governments in 1984. At the 1985 Paris Air Show
Paris Air Show
The Paris Air Show is the world's oldest and largest air show. Established in 1909, it is currently held every odd year at Le Bourget Airport in north Paris, France...
at Le Bourget, Agusta showed a mock-up of a utility version of the new helicopter, leading to a more generalised design that could be customised. After a lengthy development, the first prototype flew on 9 October 1987.
In 1989 demand for the EH101 was uncertain, the American Blackhawk was providing competition with potential export customers, and neither Britain or Italy had placed production orders yet. The Canadian government had expressed considerable interest in 1991 in acquiring up to 43 EH101s to replace their own aging naval helicopters; however with the end of the Cold War
Cold War
The Cold War was the continuing state from roughly 1946 to 1991 of political conflict, military tension, proxy wars, and economic competition between the Communist World—primarily the Soviet Union and its satellite states and allies—and the powers of the Western world, primarily the United States...
they were branded as excessive by several politicians and the acquisition was aborted in 1993. Britain maintained its commitment to the project, ordering 22 EH101 helicopters in February 1995; Italy also pressed ahead with its order for 16 EH101s in October 1995.
The first group of production EH101s for the RAF began arriving in 1997. In 2002 Westland made an unsolicited and unsuccessful offer to provide the MoD with an enhanced version of the Merlin to meet the UK's demand for lift capability. Westland and Agusta merged together to form AgustaWestland International Limited in July 2000, closing down EHI as a separate entity shortly afterwards. Consequently in June 2007 the EH101 was re-branded as the AW101.
Overview
Al-Li
Al-Li alloys are a series of alloys of aluminium and lithium, often also including copper and zirconium. Since lithium is the least dense elemental metal these alloys are significantly less dense than aluminium...
fuselage structure is damage and crash resistant, with multiple primary and secondary load paths. Active vibration control of the structural response (ACSR) uses a vibration-canceling technique to reduce the stress on the airframe. The AW101 is rated to operate in temperatures ranging from −40 to +50 °C. High flotation tyres permit operation from soft or rough terrain. The main rotor blades are a derivative of the BERP rotor blade design, which improves the aerodynamic efficiency at the blade tips, as well as reducing the blade's noise signature.
The cockpit is fitted with armoured seats for the crew, and can withstand an impact velocity of over 10 m/s. Dual flight controls are provided, though the AW101 can be flown by a single person. The pilot's instrument displays include six full colour high-definition screens and an optional mission display. A digital map and forward-looking infrared (FLIR) system display can also be installed.
Propulsion
The military version of the AW101 is powered by either three Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM322Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM322
-External links:* *...
turboshaft
Turboshaft
A turboshaft engine is a form of gas turbine which is optimized to produce free turbine shaft power, rather than jet thrust...
s used by the UK, Japan, Denmark and Portugal; or three 1,491 kW General Electric CT7-6 turboshafts in Italy, Canada, and Japan. The Rolls-Royce RTM322 engine was specifically designed for the AW101, and was later used in other helicopters such as the WAH-64 Apache. Engine inlet particle separator systems provide protection when operating in sandy environments. Each engine is supplied by a separate 1,074 litre self-sealing fuel tank using dual booster pumps. A fourth tank acts as a reservoir supply, topping up the main tanks during flight; while a fifth transfer tank can be added to increase range, as can airborne refuelling. The engines power an 18.59 metre diameter five-bladed main rotor. The rotor blades are constructed from carbon/glass with nomex
Nomex
Nomex is a registered trademark for flame resistant meta-aramid material developed in the early 1960s by DuPont and first marketed in 1967.- Properties:...
honeycomb and rohacell foam, edged with titanium
Titanium
Titanium is a chemical element with the symbol Ti and atomic number 22. It has a low density and is a strong, lustrous, corrosion-resistant transition metal with a silver color....
alloy. Computer control of the engines via the aircraft EECU's (electronic engine control unit) allows the AW101 to hover reliably in winds of over 80 km/h.
The second small apparent exhaust pipe on each engine is the blowoff from a rotary separator to remove grit from the intake air.
Weapon and defensive systems
Forward looking infrared
Forward looking infrared cameras, typically used on military aircraft, use an imaging technology that senses infrared radiation.The sensors installed in forward looking infrared cameras, as well as those of other thermal imaging cameras, use detection of infrared radiation, typically emitted from a...
is fitted to some variants. The AW101 (excluding the ASM MK1) is equipped with chaff
Chaff (radar countermeasure)
Chaff, originally called Window by the British, and Düppel by the Second World War era German Luftwaffe , is a radar countermeasure in which aircraft or other targets spread a cloud of small, thin pieces of aluminium, metallized glass fibre or plastic, which either appears as a cluster of secondary...
and flare dispensers, directed infrared countermeasures (infrared jammers), ESM (electronic support measures, in the form of RF [radio frequency] heads), and a laser detection and warning system.
It has two hard points for weapon carriers, on which the HM Mk1 model can carry four Sting Ray torpedo
Sting Ray torpedo
The Sting Ray torpedo is a current British acoustic homing light-weight torpedo manufactured by GEC-Marconi, who were later bought out by BAE Systems. It entered service in 1983.-Design and development:...
es or Mk 11 Mod 3 depth charge
Depth charge
A depth charge is an anti-submarine warfare weapon intended to destroy or cripple a target submarine by the shock of exploding near it. Most use explosives and a fuze set to go off at a preselected depth in the ocean. Depth charges can be dropped by either surface ships, patrol aircraft, or from...
s, though at present cannot use the Sea Skua
Sea Skua
The Sea Skua is a British lightweight short-range air-to-surface missile designed for use from helicopters against ships. It is primarily used by the Royal Navy on the Westland Lynx helicopter, although Kuwait uses it in a shore battery and on their Umm Al Maradem fast attack craft.The British...
missile. The Mk1, Mk3 and 3a variants can mount General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) in up to 5 locations in the main cabin pointing out of door and window apertures.
Cargo systems
The AW101's fuselage has a volume of 31.91 cubic metres (1,126.9 cu ft) and the cargo compartment is 6.5 metres (21.3 ft) in length, 2.3 metres (7.5 ft) wide and 1.91 metres (6.3 ft) high. The military version of the AW101 can accommodate up to 24 seated or 45 standing combat troops and their equipment. Alternative loads include a medical team and 16 stretchers, and cargo pallets.The cabin floor and rear ramp are fitted with flush tie-down points, a semi-automatic cargo release unit (SACRU). The ramp, 1.91 by 2.3 m (6.3 by 7.5 ), can take a 3050 kilograms (6,724.1 lb) load, allowing it to carry vehicles such as Land Rover
Land Rover
Land Rover is a British car manufacturer with its headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, United Kingdom which specialises in four-wheel-drive vehicles. It is owned by the Indian company Tata Motors, forming part of their Jaguar Land Rover group...
s. A cargo hook under the fuselage can carry external loads of 5440 kilograms (11,993.1 lb) via the use of a SACRU. A rescue hoist and a hover trim controller are fitted at the cargo door.
Avionics
The navigation system includes a GPS and inertial navigation system, VHF omnidirectional radio range (VOR) instrument landing system (ILS), tactical air navigation (TACAN), and automatic direction finding. The MK1 and MK3 are equipped with a Doppler velocity system (DVS) for when the exclusive use of the conventional pitot pressure instruments might be unreliable for gauging accurate airspeed. The AW101 is equipped with helicopter management, avionics and mission systems linked by two 1553B multiplex and ARINC 429 databuses. A Smiths Industries OMI 20 SEP automatic flight control system provides dual redundant digital control, giving autostabilisation and four-axis auto-pilot operation.British Royal Navy
The RN's final order was for 44 ASW machines, originally designatedBritish military aircraft designation systems
British military aircraft designations are used to refer to aircraft types and variants operated by the armed forces of the United Kingdom.Since the end of the First World War, aircraft types in British military service have generally been known by a name British military aircraft designations are...
Merlin HAS.1 but soon changed to Merlin HM1. The first fully operational Merlin was delivered on 17 May 1997, entering service on 2 June 2000. All aircraft were delivered by the end of 2002, and are operated by four Fleet Air Arm
Fleet Air Arm
The Fleet Air Arm is the branch of the British Royal Navy responsible for the operation of naval aircraft. The Fleet Air Arm currently operates the AgustaWestland Merlin, Westland Sea King and Westland Lynx helicopters...
squadrons, all based at RNAS Culdrose
RNAS Culdrose
Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose , based in Cornwall, near Helston, on the Lizard Peninsula, has three major roles: serving the Fleet Air Arm's front line Sea King and Merlin helicopter squadrons; providing search and rescue for the South West region; and training specialists for the Royal Navy...
in Cornwall: 814 NAS
814 Naval Air Squadron
814 Naval Air Squadron is a squadron of the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. It was formed in December 1938 and has been disbanded and reformed several times. Its nickname is "the Flying Tigers", not to be confused with the American Volunteer squadron of WWII....
, 820 NAS
820 Naval Air Squadron
820 Naval Air Squadron is a Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm carrier based squadron formed in April 1933 with the transferral of the Fairey III aircraft from 405 Flight Royal Air Force to the Fleet Air Arm...
, 824 NAS
824 Naval Air Squadron
824 Naval Air Squadron is a Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm squadron first formed on 3 April 1933, disbanding and reforming several times before assuming its current role at RNAS Culdrose as a training squadron....
and 829 NAS
829 Naval Air Squadron
829 Naval Air Squadron is a squadron of the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. It operates the AgustaWestland EH101 Merlin HM1 helicopter.-1940–1942:829 Naval Air Squadron first formed on 15 June 1940 as a torpedo and reconnaissance squadron at Royal Naval Air Station Ford, Sussex and equipped with nine...
. 700 NAS was the Merlin Operational Evaluation Unit from 2000 to 2008.
In March 2004, RN Merlins were grounded following an incident at RNAS Culdrose when the tail rotor failed on one of them. Investigations revealed that this was due to tail rotor hub manufacturing defects. Flights resumed the following year.
The Merlin HM1 has been cleared to operate from the Royal Navy's aircraft carrier
Aircraft carrier
An aircraft carrier is a warship designed with a primary mission of deploying and recovering aircraft, acting as a seagoing airbase. Aircraft carriers thus allow a naval force to project air power worldwide without having to depend on local bases for staging aircraft operations...
s, amphibious assault ship
Amphibious assault ship
An amphibious assault ship is a type of amphibious warfare ship employed to land and support ground forces on enemy territory by an amphibious assault...
s, Type 23 frigate
Type 23 frigate
The Type 23 frigate is a class of frigate built for the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom. All the ships were first named after British Dukes, thus the class is also known as the Duke class. The first Type 23 was commissioned in 1989, and the sixteenth, was launched in May 2000 and commissioned in...
s and a number of RFA
Royal Fleet Auxiliary
The Royal Fleet Auxiliary is a civilian-manned fleet owned by the British Ministry of Defence. The RFA enables ships of the United Kingdom Royal Navy to maintain operations around the world. Its primary role is to supply the Royal Navy with fuel, ammunition and supplies, normally by replenishment...
vessels including the Fort Victoria
RFA Fort Victoria (A387)
RFA Fort Victoria is a Fort Class combined fleet stores ship and tanker of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary of the United Kingdom tasked with providing ammunition, fuel, food and other supplies to Royal Navy vessels around the world....
Class. It is also intended to equip the forthcoming Type 45 destroyer
Type 45 destroyer
The United Kingdom's Type 45 destroyer is an air defence destroyer programme of the Royal Navy which will replace its Type 42 destroyers. The first ship in the class, HMS Daring, was launched on 1 February 2006 and commissioned on 23 July 2009. The ships are now built by BAE Systems Surface Ships...
s. A Capability Sustainment Programme is currently in place to upgrade 30 aircraft to the Merlin HM2 standard. This will include a new mission system and digital cockpit. It had been planned to include the remaining 8 airframes but this has now been dropped for financial reasons while alternative roles were sought for these aircraft.
Westland Sea King
The Westland WS-61 Sea King is a British licence-built version of the American Sikorsky S-61 helicopter of the same name, built by Westland Helicopters. The aircraft differs considerably from the American version, with Rolls-Royce Gnome engines , British made anti-submarine warfare systems and a...
in the Airborne Early Warning (AEW) role. On 15 December 2009, the future helicopter plans were announced. The RAF Merlin HC3 and HC3As will be moved to the Commando Helicopter Force replacing 'junglie' Sea King Commando helicopter, these helicopters being replaced with Chinooks in RAF service. The eight spare airframes will be refitted with equipment from the Sea King ASaC7, possibly designated Merlin ASaC 5. Sea King will also be replaced in the SAR role by a PFI deal, resulting in the retirement of Sea King, leaving the Navy operating Lynx Wildcat
AgustaWestland AW159
|-See also:-External links:* * . Flight International, 29 March 2005.* . Flightglobal.com, 9 Oct. 2007.* . Flight International, 12 Dec. 2008....
and Merlin, the RAF operating Puma
Aérospatiale Puma
The Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma is a four-bladed, twin-engined medium transport/utility helicopter. The Puma was originally manufactured by Sud Aviation of France.-Development:...
and Chinook, and Army operating Lynx Wildcat and Apache. The Lynx helicopter has been seen as a useful complement to the newer Merlins, however it had been mooted in 1995 than phasing out Lynx for an all-Merlin fleet in maritime use would be plausible.
It is intended that 846 NAS reforms with ex RAF Merlin HC3s in 2015. They would be followed by 845 NAS operating the fully navalised Merlin HC4 in 2017.
Royal Navy Merlins have seen action in the Caribbean, on counter-narcotics and hurricane support duties. They have also been active in Iraq, providing support to British and coalition troops on the ground, as well as maritime security duties in the North Persian Gulf
Persian Gulf
The Persian Gulf, in Southwest Asia, is an extension of the Indian Ocean located between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula.The Persian Gulf was the focus of the 1980–1988 Iran-Iraq War, in which each side attacked the other's oil tankers...
.
British Royal Air Force
RAF ordered 22 transport helicopters designatedBritish military aircraft designation systems
British military aircraft designations are used to refer to aircraft types and variants operated by the armed forces of the United Kingdom.Since the end of the First World War, aircraft types in British military service have generally been known by a name British military aircraft designations are...
Merlin HC3, the first of which entered service with No. 28 Squadron RAF
No. 28 Squadron RAF
No. 28 Squadron of the Royal Air Force operates the Merlin HC3/HC3A from RAF Benson.-World War I:No. 28 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps was formed on 7 November 1915. Initially a training squadron it became a fighter squadron equipped with the Sopwith Camel.After the end of World War I No. 28...
, based at RAF Benson
RAF Benson
RAF Benson is a Royal Air Force station near Benson in South Oxfordshire, England. It is home to the Royal Air Force's support helicopters, the Aérospatiale Puma and the EH-101 Merlin, known as the Puma HC.Mk 1 and the Merlin HC.Mk 3 and Mk 3a....
, in January 2001. The type is equipped with extended-range fuel tanks and is capable of air-to-air refueling; however, due to the lack of a suitable UK tanker aircraft, this capability has not been cleared for use. It also differs from the Royal Navy version by having double-wheel main landing gear, whereas the RN version only has a single wheel on each of the main gears.
Depth maintenance of Merlin HC3 is carried out at the Merlin Depth Maintenance Facility
Merlin Depth Maintenance Facility
Merlin Depth Maintenance Facility is located at RNAS Culdrose, Helston, Cornwall, and is responsible for performing Depth Maintenace on EH101 Merlin helicopters of both the Royal Navy, primarily based at RNAS Culdrose , and those of the Royal Air Force, primarily based at RAF Benson, Oxfordshire...
at RNAS Culdrose. The first operational deployment was to the Balkans
Balkans
The Balkans is a geopolitical and cultural region of southeastern Europe...
in early 2003. They were deployed to southern Iraq as part of Operation Telic
Operation Telic
Operation TELIC was the codename under which all British military operations in Iraq were conducted between the start of the Invasion of Iraq on 19 March 2003 and the withdrawal of the last remaining British forces on 22 May 2011...
until July 2009 when British Forces withdrew from Iraq.
To alleviate a shortfall in operational helicopters the British Ministry of Defence acquired six DMRH AW101s from Denmark in 2007. These were assigned to the RAF with the designation Merlin HC3A. As part of the deal, the UK Ministry of Defence ordered six new-build replacements for the Royal Danish Air Force. In December 2007, a second Merlin squadron, No. 78 Squadron
No. 78 Squadron RAF
No. 78 Squadron of the Royal Air Force operates the Merlin HC3/3A transport helicopter from RAF Benson.Until December 2007 it was the operator of two Westland Sea King HAR3s from RAF Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands.-History:No...
was formed at Benson. Five Merlin Mk3s are operating in Afghanistan in 2010; their initial deployment was criticised as they allegedly lack Kevlar armour, the aircraft are now fully fitted with ballistic protection armour supplied by Permali Gloucester Limited. All RAF Merlin HC3/3As are to be converted to HC4/4A configuration and passed to the Royal Navy.
Italian Navy
In 1997, the Italian government ordered 20 EH101 helicopters with four options for the Italian Navy in the following variants:- 10 anti-surface and anti-submarine (ASW)
- 4 (+2) early-warning (AEW)
- 4 utility aircraft
- 4 ASH (Amphibious Support Helicopter)
The first Italian Navy production helicopter (MM81480) was first flown on 4 October 1999 and was officially presented to the press on 6 December 1999 at the Agusta factory. Deliveries to the Italian Navy started at the beginning of 2001 and were completed by 2006. Italian EH101s operate from a variety of ships, including aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships. The 9th ASW helicopter was delivered on August 2009.
The AW101 was chosen for CSAR program, 12 + 3 option, of Aeronautica Militare (Air Force) for replacement of HH-3F.
Royal Danish Air Force
In 2001, the Royal Danish Air ForceRoyal Danish Air Force
The Royal Danish Air Force is the air force of Denmark with the capability to undertake homeland defense and homeland security roles as well international operations.-History:...
announced the purchase of eight EH101s for SAR duties and six tactical troop transports. The last of the 14 EH101s was delivered 1 March 2007 and the first SAR EH101s became operational in late April 2007. The Danish Mk 512s have a MTOW of 15,600 kg.
In 2007, the British Ministry of Defence acquired the six troop transport AW101s from Denmark to alleviate a shortfall in British operational helicopters. In exchange, the British government ordered six new-build helicopters from AgustaWestland as replacements for the Royal Danish Air Force.
On 28 January 2008, one Danish AW101 broke the drive shaft from one engine to the gear box and made an emergency landing at Billund Airport. Following this incident the Danish fleet was grounded as a safety precaution. The incident provoked national debate about the future of the EH101 in Danish service and whether it made sense to acquire different helicopters, since the EH101 had very low availability of roughly 30% due to mechanical issues. AgustaWestland in turn blamed the Danes for ordering spare parts very late and not keeping enough staff to properly service the helicopters. In April 2008, RDAF reported considerable improvements in operational availability of over 50%, citing improved service from AW (speedy delivery of spare parts) and increased proficiency of ground crews as responsible. Number 6 replacement for the helicopters taken over by British RAF was delivered January 20th 2010.
Portuguese Air Force
The Portuguese Air ForcePortuguese Air Force
The Portuguese Air Force is the air force of Portugal. Formed on July 1, 1952, with the Aeronáutica Militar and Aviação Naval united in a single independent Air Force, it is one of the three branches of the Portuguese Armed Forces and its origins dates back to 1912, when the military aviation...
has operated Merlins since 24 February 2005, in transport, search and rescue, combat search and rescue, fisheries surveillance and maritime surveillance missions. The 12 aircraft, in three versions, gradually replaced the Aérospatiale Puma
Aérospatiale Puma
The Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma is a four-bladed, twin-engined medium transport/utility helicopter. The Puma was originally manufactured by Sud Aviation of France.-Development:...
in those roles. Portuguese Merlins are painted in a tactical green and brown camouflage.
The main role of the Portuguese AW101 is search and rescue in Portugal's maritime zone. AW101s are on constant alert at three bases: Montijo
Montijo, Portugal
Montijo is a town in Montijo Municipality in Portugal.The town has a population of 25,719.-References:...
(near Lisbon), Lajes Field
Lajes Field
Lajes Field or Lajes Air Base , officially designated Air Base No. 4 , is a multi-use air field, home to the Portuguese Air Force Base Aérea Nº4 and Azores Air Zone Command , a United States Air Force detachment , and a regional air passenger terminal located near Lajes...
, Azores
Azores
The Archipelago of the Azores is composed of nine volcanic islands situated in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, and is located about west from Lisbon and about east from the east coast of North America. The islands, and their economic exclusion zone, form the Autonomous Region of the...
and Porto Santo Island
Porto Santo Island
Porto Santo Island is a Portuguese island northeast of Madeira Island in the North Atlantic Ocean; it is the northernmost and easternmost island of the archipelago of Madeira, located in the Atlantic Ocean west of Europe and Africa.- History :...
.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense ForceJapan Maritime Self-Defense Force
The , or JMSDF, is the naval branch of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, tasked with the naval defense of Japan. It was formed following the dissolution of the Imperial Japanese Navy after World War II....
ordered 14 aircraft in 2003 to use in both the AMCM (Airborne Mine Counter-Measures) and transport roles. The AW101 was modified by Kawasaki Heavy Industries
Kawasaki Heavy Industries
is an international corporation based in Japan. It has headquarters in both Chūō-ku, Kobe and Minato, Tokyo.The company is named after its founder Shōzō Kawasaki and has no connection with the city of Kawasaki, Kanagawa....
, and the Japan Defense Agency designated the model MCH-101. Characteristics of this model were automated folding of the rotor and tail, and an active anti-vibration system.
AgustaWestland, Kawasaki and Marubeni
Marubeni
is a Japanese trading company, one of the largest general trading companies in Japan.-Offices:*Head Office - 4-2, Otemachi 1-chome, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan*Head Office -20-6, Shiba 5-chome, Minato, Tokyo, Japan...
entered a general agreement in 2002. Kawasaki began assembly of the CH-101 and the MCH-101 in 2003. The MEXT
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (Japan)
The , also known as MEXT or Monkashō, is one of the ministries of the Japanese government.The Meiji government created the first Ministry of Education in 1871....
uses the CH-101 on its Antarctic transportation missions. Kawasaki began licensed production of the Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM322 turboshaft engines in 2005. The first MCH-101 was delivered to the Self-Defense Force on March 3, 2006.
The MCH-101 and CH-101 will replace the MH-53E (S-80-M-1)
CH-53E Super Stallion
The Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion is the largest and heaviest helicopter in the United States military. It was developed from the CH-53 Sea Stallion, mainly by adding a third engine, a seventh blade to the main rotor and canting the tail rotor 20 degrees. Sailors commonly refer to the Super...
for AMCM, and the Sikorsky S-61
Sikorsky S-61
The Sikorsky S-61L and S-61N are civil variants of the successful SH-3 Sea King helicopter. They are two of the most widely used airliner and oil rig support helicopters built.-Design and development:...
in a support role for Japanese Antarctic observation missions. AgustaWestland received an order for 14 MCH-101 and CH-101, and another 12 aircraft will be assembled by Kawasaki in Japan. Under agreement between Marubeni and AgustaWestland, a Spare Parts Depot was established in Japan to provide support for its MCH-101 and CH-101 fleet.
Other military customers
There has been a considerable demand for the AW101; which has kept a continuous queue of customers for over five years.Norway has expressed an interest in the AW101 as a candidate for the Norwegian All Weather Search and Rescue Helicopter (NAWSARH) programme, that is planned to replace the Westland Sea King Mk.43B
Westland Sea King
The Westland WS-61 Sea King is a British licence-built version of the American Sikorsky S-61 helicopter of the same name, built by Westland Helicopters. The aircraft differs considerably from the American version, with Rolls-Royce Gnome engines , British made anti-submarine warfare systems and a...
of the Royal Norwegian Air Force
Royal Norwegian Air Force
The Royal Norwegian Air Force is the air force of Norway. It was established as a separate arm of the Norwegian armed forces on 10 November 1944. The RNoAF's peace force is approximately 1,430 employees . 600 personnel also serve their draft period in the RNoAF...
in 2015. The other candidates for the NAWSARH contract of 10-12 helicopters are Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey
V-22 Osprey
The Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey is an American multi-mission, military, tiltrotor aircraft with both a vertical takeoff and landing , and short takeoff and landing capability...
, Eurocopter EC225, NHIndustries NH-90
NHI NH90
The NHIndustries NH90 is a medium sized, twin-engine, multi-role military helicopter manufactured by NHIndustries. The first prototype had its maiden flight in December 1995...
and Sikorsky S-92
Sikorsky S-92
The Sikorsky S-92 is a four-bladed twin-engine medium-lift helicopter built by Sikorsky Aircraft for the civil and military helicopter market. The S-92 was developed from the Sikorsky S-70 helicopter and has similar parts such as flight control and rotor systems.The H-92 Superhawk is a military...
. Iceland also cooperates with Norway in this programme and is interested in 3-4 helicopters to replace its fleet of Super Puma helicopters.
South Korea has recognised the need to modernise their airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) maritime helicopter fleet, and the AW101 is one of the helicopters being studied for the role.
In November 2007, Algeria signed a contract for six AW101 helicopters. This is one of several deals that may potentially follow according to the MOD.
VIP and other usage
The United States Marine Corps
United States Marine Corps
The United States Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. It is one of seven uniformed services of the United States...
has acquired two AW101 (VH-71) helicopters as part of its efforts to replace its Marine One
Marine One
Marine One is the call sign of any United States Marine Corps aircraft carrying the President of the United States. It usually denotes a helicopter operated by the HMX-1 "Nighthawks" squadron, either the large VH-3D Sea King or the newer, smaller VH-60N "WhiteHawk", both due to be replaced by the...
helicopters under the VXX
VXX
VXX is a procurement program to replace aging Marine One helicopters that transport the President of the United States. The current VH-3 helicopters have aging airframes, having entered service with U.S. Marine Corps Marine Helicopter Squadron One in 1963. The VH-3D replaced the VH-3A by 1976...
program. However the project itself was halted when funding on the programme was cut on 6 April 2009, though it is likely to see a revival.
India has ordered 12 AW101 helicopters, for the Indian President and Prime Minister. The AW101 was selected after competing against the Sikorsky S-92 "Superhawk" in field trials in 2008. One particular requirement was that the helicopter have "a high tail boom" to allow the Prime Minister's car to come closer to the rear exit staircase for reduced exposure to threats.
Variants
- Model 110: Italian Navy ASW/ASuW variant, eight built.
- Model 111: Royal Navy ASW/ASuW variant, designatedBritish military aircraft designation systemsBritish military aircraft designations are used to refer to aircraft types and variants operated by the armed forces of the United Kingdom.Since the end of the First World War, aircraft types in British military service have generally been known by a name British military aircraft designations are...
Merlin HM1 by customer, 44 built. - Model 112: Italian Navy Early Warning variant, four built.
- Model 300: Italian-built prototype civil passenger variant, one built.
- Model 410: Italian Navy transport variant, eight built.
- Model 411: Royal Air Force transport variant, designated Merlin HC3 by customer, 22 built.
- Model 500: Prototype utility variant with rear-ramp, two built.
- Model 510: Civil transport variant, two built.
- Model 511: Canadian Forces search and rescue variant, designated CH-149 CormorantCH-149 CormorantThe AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant is the Canadian Forces designation for the AgustaWestland AW101 , a helicopter used for air-sea rescue in Canada...
by customer, 15 built. - Model 512: Royal Danish Air Force variant for search and rescue and transport, 20 built.
- Model 514: Portuguese Air Force search and rescue variant, six built.
- Model 515: Portuguese Air Force fisheries protection variant, two built.
- Model 516: Portuguese Air Force combat search and rescue, four built.
- Model 518: Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force mine countermeasures and transport, two built.
- Model 519:Transport variant for the United States Marine Corps as the VH-71 Kestrel, five built.
- Merlin HM1: Royal Navy designation for the Model 111.
- Merlin HM2: Avionics retrofitting for 30 RN HM1s to be performed by Lockheed Martin for the Royal Navy. First flight October 2010.
- Merlin HC3: Royal Air Force designation for the Model 411.
- Merlin HC3A: Royal Air Force designation for six former Royal Danish Air Force Model 512s modified to UK standards.
- Merlin HC4/4A: Planned conversion of Ex RAF HC3/3A for RN use. Tail and blade folding plus (possible) avionics upgrade.
- Merlin ASaC 5: Planned conversion of 8 RN HM1 for use in Carrier Based Airborne Early Warning role. Presumed use of Searchwater 2000 AEW radar taken from Sea King ASaC7
- CH-148 PetrelCH-149 CormorantThe AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant is the Canadian Forces designation for the AgustaWestland AW101 , a helicopter used for air-sea rescue in Canada...
: 33 originally ordered by the Canadian ForcesCanadian ForcesThe Canadian Forces , officially the Canadian Armed Forces , are the unified armed forces of Canada, as constituted by the National Defence Act, which states: "The Canadian Forces are the armed forces of Her Majesty raised by Canada and consist of one Service called the Canadian Armed Forces."...
, reduced to 28 and later cancelled. - Lockheed Martin VH-71 Kestrel: USMCUnited States Marine CorpsThe United States Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. It is one of seven uniformed services of the United States...
variant intended to serve as the US Presidential helicopterMarine OneMarine One is the call sign of any United States Marine Corps aircraft carrying the President of the United States. It usually denotes a helicopter operated by the HMX-1 "Nighthawks" squadron, either the large VH-3D Sea King or the newer, smaller VH-60N "WhiteHawk", both due to be replaced by the...
. Two used in testing.
Military operators
- Algerian Navy has 6 on order.
- See CH-149 CormorantCH-149 CormorantThe AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant is the Canadian Forces designation for the AgustaWestland AW101 , a helicopter used for air-sea rescue in Canada...
- Royal Danish Air ForceRoyal Danish Air ForceThe Royal Danish Air Force is the air force of Denmark with the capability to undertake homeland defense and homeland security roles as well international operations.-History:...
- Eskadrille 722 (Squadron 722)
- Indian Air ForceIndian Air ForceThe Indian Air Force is the air arm of the Indian armed forces. Its primary responsibility is to secure Indian airspace and to conduct aerial warfare during a conflict...
has 12 on order, to be used for VIP transport.
- Indonesian Air ForceIndonesian Air ForceThe Indonesian Air Force is the air force branch of the Indonesian National Armed Forces.The Indonesian Air Force has 34,930 personnel equipped with 110 combat aircraft including Su-27 and Su-30.-Before Indonesian independence :...
has 12 on order.
- Malaysia Air Force has 32 on order.
- Italian NavyMarina MilitareThe Italian Navy is the navy of the Italian Republic. It is one of the four branches of military forces of Italy; formed in 1946, from what remained of the Regia Marina . As of 2008, the Italian Navy had 35,200 active personnel with 180 commissioned ships, 19 Floating Docks, and 123 aircraft...
- 1°Gruppo Elicotteri
- 3°Gruppo Elicotteri
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense ForceJapan Maritime Self-Defense ForceThe , or JMSDF, is the naval branch of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, tasked with the naval defense of Japan. It was formed following the dissolution of the Imperial Japanese Navy after World War II....
- Portuguese Air ForcePortuguese Air ForceThe Portuguese Air Force is the air force of Portugal. Formed on July 1, 1952, with the Aeronáutica Militar and Aviação Naval united in a single independent Air Force, it is one of the three branches of the Portuguese Armed Forces and its origins dates back to 1912, when the military aviation...
- Squadron 751 "Pumas"
- Royal NavyRoyal NavyThe Royal Navy is the naval warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Founded in the 16th century, it is the oldest service branch and is known as the Senior Service...
- 700M Naval Air Squadron (Operational Evaluation Unit) (2000–2008)
- 814 Naval Air Squadron814 Naval Air Squadron814 Naval Air Squadron is a squadron of the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. It was formed in December 1938 and has been disbanded and reformed several times. Its nickname is "the Flying Tigers", not to be confused with the American Volunteer squadron of WWII....
- 820 Naval Air Squadron820 Naval Air Squadron820 Naval Air Squadron is a Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm carrier based squadron formed in April 1933 with the transferral of the Fairey III aircraft from 405 Flight Royal Air Force to the Fleet Air Arm...
- 824 Naval Air Squadron824 Naval Air Squadron824 Naval Air Squadron is a Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm squadron first formed on 3 April 1933, disbanding and reforming several times before assuming its current role at RNAS Culdrose as a training squadron....
- 829 Naval Air Squadron829 Naval Air Squadron829 Naval Air Squadron is a squadron of the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. It operates the AgustaWestland EH101 Merlin HM1 helicopter.-1940–1942:829 Naval Air Squadron first formed on 15 June 1940 as a torpedo and reconnaissance squadron at Royal Naval Air Station Ford, Sussex and equipped with nine...
- Royal Air ForceRoyal Air ForceThe Royal Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Formed on 1 April 1918, it is the oldest independent air force in the world...
- No. 28 Squadron RAFNo. 28 Squadron RAFNo. 28 Squadron of the Royal Air Force operates the Merlin HC3/HC3A from RAF Benson.-World War I:No. 28 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps was formed on 7 November 1915. Initially a training squadron it became a fighter squadron equipped with the Sopwith Camel.After the end of World War I No. 28...
, RAF BensonRAF BensonRAF Benson is a Royal Air Force station near Benson in South Oxfordshire, England. It is home to the Royal Air Force's support helicopters, the Aérospatiale Puma and the EH-101 Merlin, known as the Puma HC.Mk 1 and the Merlin HC.Mk 3 and Mk 3a.... - No. 78 Squadron RAFNo. 78 Squadron RAFNo. 78 Squadron of the Royal Air Force operates the Merlin HC3/3A transport helicopter from RAF Benson.Until December 2007 it was the operator of two Westland Sea King HAR3s from RAF Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands.-History:No...
, RAF BensonRAF BensonRAF Benson is a Royal Air Force station near Benson in South Oxfordshire, England. It is home to the Royal Air Force's support helicopters, the Aérospatiale Puma and the EH-101 Merlin, known as the Puma HC.Mk 1 and the Merlin HC.Mk 3 and Mk 3a....
- No. 28 Squadron RAF
Law enforcement operators
- Tokyo Metropolitan Police DepartmentTokyo Metropolitan Police DepartmentThe Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department serves as the police force for the entire Tokyo metropolis. Founded in 1874, it is headed by a superintendent general, who is appointed by the National Public Safety Commission and approved by the prime minister.The Metropolitan Police, with a staff of more...
became the first civil customer for the type when they purchased a single example in 1998.
Notable accidents and incidents
Five Merlins have been written-off and one damaged in accidents, of which three have been due to problems with the tail rotor hub cracking.- 21 January 1993 - Italian development Merlin PP2 (MMX600) crashed near Novara-Cameri airfield in Italy after an uncommanded application of the rotor brake in flight - four killed.
- 17 April 1995 - British development Merlin PP4 (ZF644) crashed near Yarcombe in Dorset, England.
- 20 August 1996 - Italian development Merlin PP7 (I-HIOI) was damaged in an accident when it turned over after the tail rotor drive failed on landing. The helicopter was repaired.
- 27 October 2000 - British Royal Navy Merlin (ZH844) ditched near the Isle of Skye, Scotland after a hydraulic fire caused by the rotor brake being partially engaged.
- 30 March 2004 - British Royal Navy Merlin (ZH859) crashed on take-off from RNAS CuldroseRNAS CuldroseRoyal Naval Air Station Culdrose , based in Cornwall, near Helston, on the Lizard Peninsula, has three major roles: serving the Fleet Air Arm's front line Sea King and Merlin helicopter squadrons; providing search and rescue for the South West region; and training specialists for the Royal Navy...
due to tail rotor hub cracking.
- 15 November 2007 - During a medical evacuation on São Jorge Island, AzoresAzoresThe Archipelago of the Azores is composed of nine volcanic islands situated in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, and is located about west from Lisbon and about east from the east coast of North America. The islands, and their economic exclusion zone, form the Autonomous Region of the...
, Portugal, a Portuguese Air ForcePortuguese Air ForceThe Portuguese Air Force is the air force of Portugal. Formed on July 1, 1952, with the Aeronáutica Militar and Aviação Naval united in a single independent Air Force, it is one of the three branches of the Portuguese Armed Forces and its origins dates back to 1912, when the military aviation...
Merlin caused injuries to five people when it suddenly and unexpectedly climbed by one metre in the middle of the embarking procedures. The pilot was then able to recover control of the helicopter minimising damage. According to an air force spokesperson, this kind of incident is unheard of.
Specifications (Merlin HM1)