Watch: Merlin helicopter successfully deploys Sting Ray torpedo

A Royal Navy helicopter has successfully launched a torpedo as part of a training exercise conducted with the United Kingdom Carrier Strike Group.

The Merlin helicopter dropped a Sting Ray torpedo during the exercise which was being carried out to test external weapon processes and internal delivery systems.

A video was recorded of the successful test which showed the Merlin helicopter from 820 Naval Air Squadron flying over the water before deploying the torpedo.

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The Sting Ray torpedo was dropped from the base of the helicopter before a small parachute attached to the projectile was opened.

The torpedo struck the water at an angle, allowing it to continue toward its target.

One of the main purposes of the Merlin helicopter is in airborne anti-submarine warfare. 

Ships and aircraft in the Carrier Strike Group often train together with the primary objective of ensuring that the aircraft carriers are protected against submarine threats.

The strike group is currently being led by HMS Queen Elizabeth, which is crewed by 900 sailors and carries with her F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters and Merlin and Wildcat helicopters.

The group's deployment began in early September and will take them to the Norwegian Sea and waters of northern Europe.