Merlin combines several shipboard helicopter roles

Which shipboard helicopter is the personal favorite?

He chooses the Merlin because it is effective in anti-submarine warfare, troop transport, and airborne early warning, while acknowledging the Lynx as another strong design.

The Merlin is the personal favorite among shipboard helicopters. Its anti-submarine capability, troop-transport usefulness, and prospective airborne early-warning role cover several demanding missions. It supports both fleet protection and amphibious operations rather than serving only as a general utility aircraft. The Lynx is recognized as a strong alternative, while the Merlin retains the overall advantage.