Royal Marines’ Merlin Mk4 – first flight
November 2, 2016
The first Merlin Mk 4 helicopter for the British Royal Marines Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) has completed its first flight in Yeovil, Somerset, the Royal Navy announced on 28 October. The Merlin Mk 4 will replace the Royal Marines’ Mk 3 helicopter from late 2017. It is being upgradedby Leonardo.
The new variant is better suited to commando and maritime operations than the MK 3, with a folding main rotor head and tail to enable it to operate from Royal Navy carriers and assault ships at sea. The aircraft will also have improved avionics. The first Mk 4 is expected to be ready for front-line operations by late 2017, with the entire fleet of 25 set to be converted by the end of 2020.