The technically complex task was successfully managed by DE&S' Merlin team in response to an Urgent Operational Requirement.

Trials marked the end of a busy period involving staff from the Merlin team, Air Warfare Centre, Petards Joyce-Loebl and a host of other industry partners.

The first aircraft is set to be deployed on a Type 23 frigate Merlin flight later this year. The DAS has been designed to detect and defeat missile threats using a combination of missile warners, decoys and jamming to confuse missile guidance systems.

Petards Joyce-Loebl were awarded the contract to manufacture and supply the ALE-47 dispensing equipment as well as supplying essential technical and engineering support throughout the project.

DE&S Project manager Emil Dowdeswell added: "This project has been a major challenge from the start. Without a strong commitment from the team and recognition that everyone can make a difference, we would not have succeeded.

The MOD and industry has pulled together to guarantee that every opportunity has been taken to ensure this programme maintained schedule and delivered a new and effective capability to Merlin Mk 1."
 
Article extracts courtesy of 'de&s desider' magazine