HMS Richmond's Merlin is in a bit of a tight spot on CSG25 – but it's worth the squeeze
HMS Richmond has revealed how her Merlin helicopter has managed to get out of a very tight spot.
The Type 23 frigate released footage showing how the Merlin Mk2 was slowly reversed from the hangar to the deck during the vessel's deployment with Carrier Strike Group 25 (CSG25).
The Merlin first entered service more than 25 years ago and has been providing the Royal Navy with its wings and empowering the Royal Marines.
HMS Richmond posted on X alongside the video: "Our Merlin Mk2 is a tight fit in the hangar but well worth the squeeze for the capability it delivers."
The Royal Navy is currently using the Merlin Mk2 and Mk4.
The ultimate sub-hunter
The Merlin Mk2 has been dubbed the "ultimate sub-hunter".
The helicopter, which can also be used for search and rescue and maritime patrol, is able to fly at 160 knots and lift 3.8 tonnes.
Based at RNAS Culdrose, the Merlin Helicopter Force operates 30 Merlin Mk2 helicopters from three squadrons and deploys worldwide on Royal Navy ships.
The 23 metre-long Mk2 is equipped with Sting Ray torpedoes.
It has advanced radar that can be used to hunt threats beneath the waves.
The crew
Merlin Mk2 crews are known as "pingers" due to the noise of the sub-hunting sonar.
Each aircraft has a crew of four: two pilots, one observer who is often the mission commander and in charge of navigation, weapons and radar, and an aircrewman who covers the sonar.
When the helicopter is role-fitted for airborne surveillance and control, the crew are known as "baggers", for the distinctive bag which houses a powerful radar lowered under the fuselage when in flight.
The "bagging" crew of three consists of one pilot and two observers.
Flying high above the CSG, the baggers look for possible threats and can direct other aircraft such as F-35B Lightnings.
For more reports about Carrier Strike Group 25 click here.
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