Availability of the Royal Navy's fleet of 55 Merlin helicopters is set to increase thanks to a new engine support contract award which runs through to 2030. Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) has placed a £300m, six-year contract with Safran Helicopter Engines UK to deliver continuous support for the helicopter's RTM322 engine and support British jobs. The six-year contract, which starts on 1 April 2024, will deliver an improved, flexible arrangement that optimises availability and grades success against agreed performance outputs, ensuring Merlin's capability while carrying out its vital roles delivering UK maritime force protection, anti-submarine warfare and amphibious medium lift capability. Through various contracts, including a joint venture with Rolls Royce, Safran has provided engine support for Merlin's RTM322 since 1998.