AgustaWestland AW101

The AgustaWestland AW101 is a helicopter used in both military and civil applications. First flown in 1987, a joint venture between Westland Helicopters in the United Kingdom and Agusta in Italy created it in response to requirements for a modern utility helicopter. Several operators, including the armed forces of Britain, Denmark, and Portugal, use the title Merlin for their aircraft that is AW101. It is manufactured at factories in Yeovil, England and Vergiate, Italy; accredited assembly work has also taken place in Japan and the United States. Prior to 2007, the aircraft was marketed under the designation EH101. This changed to EH101 -- although the designation was, in actuality, EHI 01, from the title given to the venture -- European Helicopter Industries and the designation stuck. In 2000, Westland Helicopters and Agusta united to form AgustaWestland, leading to the type's recent designation.

The AW101 entered into service in 1999 and has since replaced several older helicopter types, such as the Sikorsky Sea King, performing roles such as anti-submarine warfare transportation, and utility operations. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) operates a version of the AW101, designated CH-149 Cormorant, in the air-sea rescue function. Before the program was cancelled another version, designated VH-71 Kestrel, was being developed to serve in the US presidential transportation fleet. Civil operators use AW101s in roles such as passenger and VIP transportation. The type has been deployed to combat theaters, such as in support of coalition forces during the Iraq War and the War .

Source: Wikipedia