Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest Reaches Full Operational Capability (FOC)
The Royal Navy’s new Airborne Surveillance and Control (ASaC) capability known as Crowsnest, has reached a key milestone in its operational readiness by achieving Full Operational Capability (FOC) status.
Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest is the Royal Navy’s next-generation airborne surveillance capability that provides unparalleled early warning, air defence, and maritime detection. It is a pivotal asset and component of Carrier Enabled Power Projection (CEPP), when combined with the F35 and the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carrier.
The Crowsnest capability combined with Merlin Mk2 empowers the crew to operate with heightened awareness, greater operational efficiency, and extended range. As a critical asset within Carrier Support Group 2025 (CSG25), Crowsnest provides protection for the group’s flagship, HMS Prince of Wales, its supporting vessels and aircraft, and plays a pivotal role in maintaining naval forces at the forefront of global operations.
"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."
The FOC milestone is a direct result of the exceptional collaboration between the UK Ministry of Defence, (Defence Equipment and Support) the Royal Navy, Thales and Leonardo Helicopters.
Equipped with an advanced mission system, latest evolution of the Sea Search radar and Link16, Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest significantly enhances the strike group’s ability to conduct wide-area surveillance, detect threats, and provide essential intelligence to support both defensive and offensive operations. The heightened situational awareness capability provided allows the Carrier Strike Group Commander to respond rapidly and effectively to emerging threats across vast operational areas and in complex, contested environments.
Key Features of the Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest System Include:
- Enhanced Early Warning and Surveillance: Provides 360-degree radar coverage, enabling the detection and tracking of aerial and surface threats at great distances, ensuring the crew is always prepared.
- Real-Time Intelligence Sharing: Facilitates the rapid exchange of critical data with other assets via Link16, improving coordination, and mission execution across the strike group.
- Advanced Airborne Radar: Delivers precise tracking and identification of both air and surface targets, enabling the crew to make more accurate decisions in high-pressure situations.
- Flexible Deployment: Capable of supporting a wide range of mission types, from air defence to search and rescue, while enhancing interoperability with allied forces.
The Crowsnest programme director for the Royal Navy (Commander James Stone) has quoted: “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.”
For CSG25, this milestone is not merely a technological advancement—it represents a strategic advantage. The integration of Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest within the strike group provides the Operational Commander with unmatched awareness, precision, and flexibility. This delivers a decisive edge, providing protection to ships and aircraft while maintaining the ability to respond swiftly to global security challenges.
As CSG25 continues to lead the charge in modern naval operations, the operational readiness of Merlin Mk2 Crowsnest and F35 ensures that the UK maintains its global leadership in maritime security, supporting peacekeeping, conflict prevention, and strengthening ties with international allies.