A Merlin Mk2 helicopter lands on the deck of the first of the RFA’s new fleet of tankers for the first time.

RFA Tidespring, the first of four 39,000 tonne Tide-Class tankers, completed her Air Sea Acceptance Trial with the helicopter from QinetiQ at Boscombe Down.

Commanding Officer, Captain Simon Herbert, said: “Achieving the aviation sea acceptance trials is a key milestone in the generation of RFA Tidespring into Naval Service.

“Successful completion of these trials will certify the parameters necessary for all Tide-class ships to operate aircraft in support of a wide range of defence activities, such as maritime security, task group operations and humanitarian and disaster-relief operations.”

Tidespring, which earlier this week made her debut visit to Gibraltar, is currently undergoing trials ahead of her acceptance into the fleet in November.