THE Royal Navy's most modern aircraft, the Merlin is primarily used for anti-submarine warfare.
It had state-of-the-art sensors and communications technology and has been proven on operations around the world.
See our best Merlin pictures here
Its sophisticated control computers mean that it can hover day and night, in extreme weather, from the flight decks of large and small ships.
The Merlin's radar can be used to track hundreds of miles away. It can also lift heavy loads and its submarine tracking equipment can be taken out to make room for seats for carrying troops, search and rescue work and casualty evacuation.
The Royal Navy is currently upgrading its fleet to Mk2 Merlins in a £750 million revamp.
Outwardly virtually identical, the Mk2 is transformed on the inside, with a cutting-edge touchscreen integrated command system.
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