The Royal Navy put into service the first Commando Merlin Mk4 helicopter.

With the statement made by United Kingdom Defense Minister Guto Bebb, the entry of the helicopter into the Royal Navy service has become official. The Commando Merlin Mk4 has been specially developed for Royal Marine's airborne operations of Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers.

The helicopter called Commando Merlin Mk4 is faster than its predecessor. Platform has foldable rotor and tail and  more advanced avionics that making it more convenient to operate flights from Queen Elizabeth class ships. A total of 25 helicopters would enter the Royal Navy service.  The total cost of Mk4, developed from Mk3 Merlin standards, amounts to 38 million Pounds.