The Merlin MK4 helicopter has been in the news once again, following a tragic crash in which three servicemen lost their lives this week. The accident occurred when the aircraft crashed into a field at Sourton, Okehampton, Devon. According to a BBC News report, Tim Ripley, editor of Defence Eye, said the principal role of Merlin Mk4s was to carry Royal Marines into battle, describing the aircraft as a 'go anywhere helicopter'. He explained that …