Royal Navy’s HMS Trent Upgrades Helicopter Landing Tech

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PORTSMOUTH, HMS Trent has completed successful trials of a new helicopter landing aid, confirming the Royal Navy vessel’s readiness ahead of redeployment to the Caribbean.

The trials, carried out over three days with a Wildcat helicopter, tested the newly installed Helicopter Visual Landing Aid System (HVLAS), a first for the Royal Navy. The advanced system, supplied by Glamox, is designed to assist pilots landing on the ship’s flight deck during poor weather or nighttime operations.

According to a Royal Navy statement issued on 30 July, the upgrade includes a stabilised horizon bar, glide path indicator, and advanced lighting compatible with night-vision equipment. The lighting intensity is adjustable, helping to improve visibility in demanding flight conditions.

HMS Trent returned to UK waters to complete its Fleet Operational Standards and Training (FOST) period following a seven-month refit in Babcock’s Malta dry dock. The maintenance included a comprehensive systems overhaul and the application of the striking dazzle camouflage now used across the River-class offshore patrol vessels.

The refit, part of ongoing efforts to keep the Royal Navy’s patrol fleet at operational readiness, also provided the platform for integrating the new HVLAS. The certification of this system ensures safer and more effective helicopter operations, particularly in operational theatres where precision landings are critical.

HMS Trent is one of the Royal Navy’s Batch II River-class patrol ships. Built to support global maritime security efforts, the vessel has previously operated in the Mediterranean and West Africa, and is now preparing for renewed duties in the Caribbean.

The ship’s missions typically include counter-narcotics operations, disaster relief, and support for regional security partners. No Ministry of Defence announcement has yet been made regarding the wider installation of the HVLAS across the fleet.

The successful certification positions HMS Trent to continue contributing to British interests abroad, with improved aviation capability as part of its patrol operations.