Barkhane: the Danish Merlin operational
(B2) Transport Helicopter Detachment AW-101 Merlin des Danois has been fully operational since December 24, the French army staff tells us. The 70 soldiers who make it up carried out a first logistics operation for the benefit of Operation Barkhane two days later
The “Danish Air Task Unit” therefore began its mission about twenty days ahead of schedule. The first helicopter had started its training flights around Gao in mid-December, the second having arrived on the 18th of the same month.
The two aircraft, with their capacity to transport around thirty men or up to five tonnes of freight, provide logistical support to the French troops. Rotary wing needs are still high in this theater of operations, where they provide a crucial advantage in maneuvers.
Before committing to Barkhane, Denmark had already supported the French operation Serval in 2013 by providing a transport plane. He also contributes regularly to the United Nations stabilization mission in Mali (Minusma).
(RM)
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