Computer-generated image of Merlin helicopters operating from a Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier [Picture: Copyright Aircraft Carrie...
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| Computer-generated image of Merlin helicopters operating from a Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier [Picture: Copyright Aircraft Carrier Alliance |
Following renegotiation, Britain's under development Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers will field the next generation Crowsnest helicopter-borne early warning systems (AEW) 18 months earlier, saving £22 million.
UK now expects the Crowsnest program to be operational by 2019.
Crowsnest system will be integrated to Royal Navy’s fleet of upgraded AW 101 Merlin Mk2 helicopters, including those to be embarked on the Queen Elizabeth Class carriers. The system will replace the Westland Sea King Mk7 airborne surveillance and control system helicopters, which are slated to retire by 2016.
UK MoD also awarded Lockheed Martin UK, which designs the Merlin helicopters, a £24 million contract to run a competition to design, develop and demonstrate Crowsnest.
