Safran secures a support contract for Merlin helicopter engines.

On April 3, 2024, the UK Ministry of Defence, through its Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) agency, formalized a significant contract valued at £300 million with Safran Helicopter Engines UK. This six-year agreement, commencing on April 1, 2024, is aimed at providing continuous support for the RTM322 engines of the Merlin helicopters, while also bolstering employment within the British defense sector.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Merlin helicopter, officially known as the AgustaWestland AW101 (formerly EH101), is a medium-heavy multi-role helicopter jointly developed by Agusta in Italy and Westland Helicopters in the UK (Picture source: Defence Equipment & Support)

Merlin helicopters, key assets of the Royal Navy, fulfill critical roles in maritime protection, anti-submarine warfare, and amphibious lift capacity. This new contract promises to enhance the availability and efficiency of the fleet, consisting of 55 Merlin aircraft, focusing on flexible arrangements and measurable performance outcomes.

James Cartlidge, the British Minister for Defence Procurement, praised the contract's impact on the operational availability of the Merlin fleet, underscoring their essential role in various missions including submarine hunting, maritime patrols, troop transport, and casualty evacuation.

Keith Bethell, Helicopters Director at Defence Equipment and Support, acknowledged the significance of collaboration with Safran, which has contributed to Merlin's success through meticulous support of the RTM322 engine since 1998, through various contracts and a joint venture with Rolls-Royce. This partnership ensures the engines are maintained in the best possible condition, securing over 30 highly skilled jobs, primarily in Fareham.

The Merlin helicopter, officially known as the AgustaWestland AW101 (formerly EH101), is a medium-heavy multi-role helicopter jointly developed by Agusta in Italy and Westland Helicopters in the UK. Equipped with three Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322 turboshaft engines, the Merlin stands out for its versatility, significant transport capacity, and extended flight performance, making it capable of operating in various weather and environmental conditions.

Initially designed for search and rescue (SAR), anti-submarine warfare (ASM), and utility transport missions, the Merlin has become a pillar for several armed forces worldwide, including the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force, and the military of several other countries. Its ability to transport up to 25 fully equipped soldiers or a substantial volume of cargo, along with its armament capabilities for combat missions, renders the Merlin a strategic asset for both military and civilian operations.

The Royal Navy currently operates two versions of the Merlin. The MK2, introduced in 2014, features advanced radar and sonar systems, making it effective in anti-submarine warfare but also suitable for various missions like troop transport and casualty evacuation. The Merlin MK2s have been deployed from numerous Royal Navy platforms, including the Queen Elizabeth Class carriers and the Daring Class destroyers.

The MK4 variant has been specially modified for the needs of the Royal Marines, including a fast-roping beam for rapid deployment of Special Forces from the main cabin door.

Since its service introduction in the 2000s, the Merlin has been regularly updated to meet modern operational requirements, demonstrating its adaptability and ongoing importance within armed forces around the world. Its robust and versatile design enables it to perform crucial missions in maritime protection, global deployment support, and force projection in amphibious operations

Defense News April 2024