The newly-formed Merlin Carrier Air Group taxiing out for departure for Exercise Deep Blue - its first deployment

Ship deck crew welcome two HM2s aboard HMS Illustrious during the recent Exercise Joint Warrior.

The nine Merlin HM2s depart RNAS Culdrose for Exercise Deep Blue.

De-humidification under way on an 820 NAS HM2 below deck on HMS Illustrious during Exercise Joint Warrior in April 2014.

Sonobuoys being prepared for use aboard HMS Illustrious during Exercise Joint Warrior.

An 824 NAS HM2 practising confined area landing operations, an essential part of the work-up for both shipborne and secondary role operations, near RNAS Culdrose.

An 824 NAS HM2 during a recent training mission over Cornwall.

HM1s arrived for upgrade at AgustaWestland's facility, Yeovil, UK from RNAS Culdrose approximately every six weeks - the task taking around nine months for each.

The Rockwell Collins glass cockpit, with its five 10in x 8in (254 x 203mm) displays, is a key feature of the night vision goggle-compatible HM2.

The HM2’s rear crew can process information, attack multiple targets above and below the surface and disseminate this information via Link-11 data links more quickly than in the HM1.

RNAS Culdrose 4 The cockpit dynamic simulator is part of the advanced training facilities at Culdrose. Lockheed Martin