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The EH-101 Merlin, now known as the AW101, was developed in the late 1970s and 1980s as a joint project between the United Kingdom and Italy. It was designed to replace aging anti-submarine helicopters like the Sea King. Westland Helicopters (UK) and Agusta (Italy) formed a partnership to create a modern, long-range, multi-role aircraft capable of anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and transport missions. The first prototype flew in 1987. Despite budget pressures and political debate, the helicopter entered service in the late 1990s. Today, it serves in several countries and is built by Leonardo.
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| Merlin Cutaway |
The AW101 (formerly EH-101 Merlin) is powered by three turboshaft engines—typically Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322 or General Electric CT7 variants—providing strong lift and redundancy for maritime missions. It can carry up to 30 troops or several tons of cargo, with a range exceeding 1,300 km depending on configuration.
