Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest provides early warning, air defence, and maritime threat detection, supporting the UK’s Carrier Enabled Power Projection strategy. Operating alongside the F-35 and Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, it enhances the Royal Navy’s capacity to protect its fleet and respond to evolving global threats.
“Achieving full operational capability with the Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest system is a significant accomplishment for the Ministry of Defence (MOD), Royal Navy and the entire Industry team,” said Emlyn Taylor, Group Managing Director of Lockheed Martin UK – Rotary and Mission Systems. “With this capability, the Royal Navy is better prepared to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving global security environment.”
Developed in collaboration with the MOD, Defence Equipment and Support, Thales, and Leonardo Helicopters, the Crowsnest system is a vital element of Carrier Strike Group 2025 (CSG25). Lockheed Martin contributed advanced systems integration, ensuring the capability met stringent operational standards.
Fitted with the latest Sea Search radar, mission systems and Link16 communications, Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest delivers 360-degree threat detection and real-time intelligence sharing. These features significantly increase the carrier group’s operational awareness, enhancing mission success in complex environments.
Commander James Stone, Crowsnest programme director for the Royal Navy, stated: “The Merlin Mk2 ASaC helicopters have now reached full operating capability and this is a hugely significant milestone. It now means the ‘eyes of the fleet’ are back, doing their core job with the full ability to deliver maritime force protection from air and surface threats.”
The system provides a flexible platform suitable for a range of missions, including search and rescue, and air defence, while supporting interoperability with allied forces. Its deployment reinforces the Royal Navy’s position as a leader in modern maritime operations.
As CSG25 prepares for future global missions, the integration of Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest ensures enhanced protection for vessels and aircraft.
