Project SAIF – Assessment of Ship Helicopter Operating Limits Using the Merlin Helicopter Simulator

The paper describes recent work conducted under project SAIF (Ship / Air Interface Framework). The programme, funded by the UK Ministry of Defence, has developed a networked version of the dynamic Merlin helicopter simulator located at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose. The paper describes the models used and highlights the major strengths and some weaknesses of the integrated simulation approach. Having assessed the operating limits for a Merlin flying to a Type-23 Frigate and made tuning adjustments where appropriate, the results have been validated against available flight test data. The simulation has subsequently been used to make a full assessment of the operating limits of the Merlin flying to a Type-45 Destroyer prior to its entry into service in 2009. Although the data from this trial are not available for publication, the key achievements are summarised.