Merlin Mk2 carrying the @ThalesUK Crowsnest radar.

Coming to a @QEClassCarriers somewhere near you, a @LDO_Helicopters @LockheedMartin #Merlin Mk2 carrying the @ThalesUK #Crowsnest radar. This is the trials aircraft for "aero-mechanical" testing, with flight trials taking place throughout the rest of 2019. pic.twitter.com/3goUyGDrJm

— Tony Osborne (@Rotorfocus) April 4, 2019

My God that is one horrible looking and awkward setup, but if it works....

I'm still wondering if and when the USMC will be trying to get a similar setup operating from a MV-22.  I hope it doesn't because it will be a duplication of effort.  The USMC has a couple of KC-130s shadowing its MEUs from land bases.  We could borrow a few E-2Ds if they're needed.

Back to basics!  Don't duplicate assets that are available from other services!  Focus on core competencies!