Versatility in Flight The AW101 Merlin Helicopter Saga

The AW101 "Merlin," previously known as the EH101 Merlin, stands as a versatile medium-lift helicopter jointly developed by British and Italian entities. Since its inception in the 1980s, it has witnessed a notable surge in sales and an expanded operational footprint. Powered by a trio of turboshaft engines, this substantial helicopter platform caters to a diverse array of military and civilian needs. Its capabilities encompass various roles such as general passenger transport, maritime defense, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), airborne early warning (AEW), search and rescue (SAR), amphibious support, disaster relief, and medical evacuations. As of the latest count, more than 140 units of this model have been manufactured.

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All US Kestrels were sold to the Canadians (9), where some will be reconfigured for SAR use and others as parts bins to keep the highest recorded flying hour 101 fleet in the air. The entire Canadian fleet is also being upgraded to the same standard as Norway's new SAR fleet. The RCN went with navalized H92s for their ship borne sub hunters which was a poor decision in the end as they are just coming online now 20 years later with one lost already due to bad flight software coding