The crows are coming

In the near future, the battle group around the British aircraft carrier Queen Elizabeth leave the country and head for East Asia. The final preparations are currently underway on board the ships. This also includes the step-by-step embarkation of the aircraft and with them the operating and maintenance personnel. The three Merlin Mk 2s have now landed on the flight deck of the QE. With them came a total of 190 people who are responsible for safe and reliable operation during the voyage. The helicopters of the 820 Naval Air Squadron are responsible for monitoring the air and sea space. They will operate with their specialised radars at an altitude of up to 1.5 miles above the formation, dramatically increasing the detection range. They can also ensure communication between the carrier's ships and aircraft over long distances.
In addition to the three so-called Croswnest helicopters, there are four Merlins on board the Queen Elizabethwhich are equipped for submarine hunting. All aircraft originate from the Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose in Cornwall.

In addition to the three Crowsnest models, four ASW Merlins will also be on board

Text: mb; Photos: Royal Navy/Crown Copyright