UK Merlin Mk4/4A programme hit by delays

摘要

The UK's ongoing AW101 Merlin Mk4/4A delivery programme has been delayed beyond its original end date of December 2020 after manufacturer Leonardo and the MoD agreed to extend final aircraft handover to 2021. The new plan was settled on by both parties in 2018, according to a Leonardo spokesperson, who did not disclose the cause of the delay but stated that the latest schedule is intended to 'benefit the forward fleet'. Of a 25-strong fleet, 21 Mk4/4A helicopters are due to make up the forward fleet, which will be operated by the Commando Helicopter Force.