Glamox, a global provider of lighting solutions, has confirmed the successful completion of the first night landing by a foreign partner helicopter on a UK Royal Navy Batch 2 Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV).
The operation, involving a United States Coast Guard helicopter and HMS Trent, took place off the coast of Miami, Florida, on 11 February 2026. This milestone was facilitated by the Glamox Helicopter Visual Landing Aid System (HVLAS), which was installed on the vessel in 2025. The successful integration of this technology underscores the increasing importance of interoperability within the UK defence supply chain and highlights significant opportunities for specialist contractors in the maritime sector.
The HVLAS is a comprehensive LED flight deck lighting solution designed to provide pilots with critical visual cues during approach and landing, particularly in low-visibility conditions or at night. The system features a stabilised horizon bar that maintains a reference point regardless of the vessel’s pitch and roll, alongside a three-colour glide path indicator to assist with approach angles. Furthermore, the installation includes deck-edge lighting and Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) navigation lights, ensuring that the flight deck remains operational for helicopters using night vision goggles. For UK-based sub-contractors and engineering firms, the deployment of such advanced systems represents a growing requirement for technical upgrades across the Royal Navy’s existing fleet to meet modern coalition standards.
The project involved a collaborative effort between several key stakeholders within the UK defence ecosystem. Glamox worked alongside du Pré Marine, the primary customer responsible for the installation on HMS Trent, and engaged closely with the Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) organisation within the Ministry of Defence. Additionally, coordination was required with UK Docks Marine Services, the through-life support contractor for the vessel. This multi-party involvement demonstrates the structured nature of the UK maritime supply chain, where prime contractors and specialist SMEs must align to deliver enhanced operational capabilities.
Looking ahead, there are clear indications of further market potential within the Batch 2 OPV programme. While Glamox has currently supplied systems for HMS Trent and HMS Spey, there is an active aspiration to upgrade the aviation capabilities of the remaining vessels in the class. Such enhancements are critical for maintaining operational flexibility in regions like the Caribbean, where disaster relief and joint security operations rely on the ability to host various aircraft from partner nations. For businesses seeking to enter the defence sector, this development highlights the sustained demand for specialised maritime technologies that improve safety and mission versatility on a global scale.
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Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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