Merlin helicopter, Bosnia, 2003

Digital photograph by Corporal Anthony L Belgrave, 2003.

The Agusta Westland Merlin was developed as a naval helicopter but the Royal Air Force (RAF) adopted it as a troop transport and supply aircraft to meet the increasing demands on UK forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. RAF Merlins were first deployed to Iraq in 2004 and to Afghanistan in 2009, where they eventually replaced ageing Sea Kings. In 2012 the RAF's Merlins began to be transferred to Fleet Air Arm's Commando Helicopter Force, part of the UK's Joint Helicopter Command.

From a collection of photographs of the British Army on active service, training and engaged in sports, 2001-2005.