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Merlin Helicopters: Finance

Asked by James MacClearyLiberal DemocratMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 14 July 2026UIN 16262

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the breakdown and purpose of the £1.6 billion expenditure on Merlin helicopters from FY26/27 to FY29/30.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The £1.6 billion in Merlin helicopters over four years is a combined investment that includes in-service support, readiness and obsolescence treatment through the Out of Service Date Extension to 2040 Programme. It includes Merlin Mk2 Anti-Submarine Warfare, Merlin Mk4 Medium Lift Helicopter and the Crowsnest Airborne Early Warning role fit to Merlin Mk2.

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