We are very pleased to hear today's announcement by the Defence Secretary that RAF Benson is to receive a further 6 Merlin Helicopters from the Danish Government, increasing the Merlin fleet to 28. It is expected that the new Merlins should have a deployable capability by 2008 providing a welcome boost to RAF Benson's ability to provide direct support to the UK Army both in the UK and on operations wherever the capability is required. The news will mean a lot of hard work in the months ahead for RAF Benson's personnel as they look to incorporate the new aircraft into the Merlin Fleet alongside 28(Army Cooperation) Squadron's current aircraft, but their professionalism, dedication and good humour will ensure that RAF Benson continues to make a vital contribution to UK Defence policy.
Group Captain Paul Lyall, OBE