Royal Navy Aircraft Carriers To Get New Surveillance Systems By 2019

The UK Ministry of Defense has confirmed plans to accelerate the Crowsnest carrier-based airborne surveillance and control programme ensuring its operation by 2019.

Intended to replace the RN's current Sea King ASaC.7 (SKASaC), which retires from service in 2016, a £24 million Crowsnest contract awarded to Lockheed Martin is based on the provision of a roll-on/roll-off ASaC mission fit for Merlin HM.2 helicopters, including those to be embarked on the Queen Elizabeth Class carriers.

The decision to bring forward the Crowsnest programme has been made as part of the annual review of MOD’s 10-year equipment plan. The plan, worth £160 billion, includes unallocated funding to support equipment requirements that may arise as threats emerge or priorities change.

The shorter delivery time for Crowsnest will lead to a significant reduction in costs, saving about £22 million, as specialist industry personnel will be required for a shorter period of time.

“Crowsnest will provide vital surveillance and intelligence to protect the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers," Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said. “The introduction of Crowsnest 18 months early will ensure HMS Queen Elizabeth has the full range of capabilities when it enters service.”