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Thailand will Receive Four EC-725 in 2015

19 September 2012

Eurocopter EC-725 Combat SAR version (photo : Eurocopter)

Eurocopter to supply four EC725 search and rescue helicopters to the Royal Thai Air Force

A contract was signed today between Eurocopter and the Royal Thai Air Force for the supply of four EC725 helicopters, configured for search and rescue missions.

Marignane, 18 September 2012

Signing the new agreement today were Air Marshal Paiboon Singhamat of the Royal Thai Air Force, and Olivier Lambert, Eurocopter’s Senior Vice President for Sales and Customer Relations.

“This latest endorsement underscores the role of our EC725/EC225 family as the helicopters of reference in Asia for search & rescue,” Lambert said. “It also marks a new step in Eurocopter’s expansion of its ties with Thailand as the country moves ahead with modernization programs for its helicopter fleets.” Deliveries of the EC725, the twin-engine tactical rotorcraft from Eurocopter's successful Cougar family, will be in 2015.

“This contract for the EC725 will greatly enhance the capabilities of the Royal Thai Air Force, giving us added reach and effectiveness in search and rescue missions," stated Air Marshal Paiboon Singhamat, Chairman of the Purchasing Committee.

The twin-engine EC725/EC225 rotary-wing aircraft family features high-performance navigation and mission systems, including a unique digital four-axis autopilot. Offering excellent flight autonomy, this powerful machine is also great for tactical transport as it has a large cabin with seating for 25 persons. As a result, the EC725 military version and its EC225 civilian/parapublic variant have become the reference for civil and military search and rescue, off-shore and passenger transport missions around the world.

Eurocopter already is a helicopter supplier in Thailand for military and law enforcement, having been selected for acquisitions by the Royal Thai Army and Royal Thai Police.

(EADS)

Cabinet Approved the Procurement of Four EC-725 Helicopters for RTAF

29 Agustus 2012

EC-725 Combat Search and Rescue helicopter (photo : A. Pecchi)

ThaiArmedForce.com – It has reported that the Cabinet approved the procurement of Air Force helicopters from Eurocopter 4 aircraft worth U.S. $ 4 billion, although the report did not specify the version that will be provided. But it is quite certain that the EC725 Super Cougar Search and Rescue.

Air Force plans to supply helicopters to replace UH-1H, Air Force will be supplied with 16 aircraft by dividing the project into three phases: Phase 1 acquisition of four aircraft, phase two : supply 8 aircraft, and phase 3 : 4 supply 4 aircraft.

The EC725 is a versatile long-range development from Super Puma or Cougar-2 family, pilot carrying troops or the weight of 28 tons, 2 Turbomeca Makila 2A1 engine, operating range 857 mile range, fly 1325 miles with a top speed of 175 knots. In service in France, Brazil, Malaysia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico, total orders to date (not counting the orders of the United States) are 131 aircraft.

Sources in the Air Force told to ThaiArmedForce.com that there was 4 company that competes : Sikorsky S-92 from American, EC725 from Eurocopter in Europe, AW139 from AugustaWestland of Italy, and Mi-17 from Kazan/Ulan-Ude from Russia. Primarily by the Air Force's Mi-17 and AW139 cut out.

The Air Force is committed to supply the S-92 with the procurement of three aircrafts, that the Royal Aircraft recently acquired. However, sources indicate that the S-92 does not offer Search and Rescue equipment to the Air Force. The Air Force is required to purchase equipment for Search and Rescue and the EC725 is equipped with it. As a result, the total price will be, and the Air Force to procure changes in the EC725.

While this has not been officially signed the contract. The process is still under negotiation.

(ThaiArmedForce)

PTDI Serahkan 4 Helikopter Bell 412EP untuk TNI AD

10 Agustus 2012

Bell 412EP pesanan TNI Angkatan Darat (photo : ARC)

JAKARTA-TNI-AD menerima empat helikopter serba guna Bell 412 EP yang berkemampuan teknis di atas jenis seri-seri terdahulu helikopter tersebut yang dipesan dari PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero).

Penyerahan empat helikopter Bell 412 EP itu dilaksanakan dalam acara serah terima dari Direktur Utama PTDI Dr. Budi Santoso kepada Asisten Logistik Kepala Staf TNI AD, Mayor Jenderal TNI Sonny Widjaya bertempat di pangkalan Pusat Penerbangan AD di Skadron 21/Sena Pondok Cabe, Tangerang Selatan, Jumat (10/8).

Pengadaan tersebut berdasarkan dua kontrak pengadaan yang masing-masing ditandatangani kedua pihak pada November 2011 dan Maret 2012, sejalan dengan instruksi Presiden Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono yang memerintahkan setiap pengadaan alat utama sistem senjata TNI harus memprioritaskan sumber dalam negeri.

Dalam acara serah terima itu, Dirut PTDI Budi Santoso menyatakan harapan pihaknya agar empat helikopter itu akan membawa pengaruh besar bagi kemampuan TNI, khususnya TNI AD dalam menghadapi tugas-tugas yang semakin berat. PTDI memang menyadari kebutuhan alutsista bagi TNI akan terus meningkat.

"Hal ini tentu sejalan dengan tantangan yang semakin beragam sehingga upaya antisipasi harus terus dioptimalkan. Kami sebagai salah satu penyedia produk alut sista, tentunya harus terus berupaya untuk dapat memenuhi tuntutan yang diminta," kata Budi Santoso.

Budi Santoso juga mengatakan bahwa TNI AD selama ini merupakan pemakai terbesar helikopter-helikopter produksi pihaknya, dan di masa mendatang diharapkan TNI AD akan tetap mempercayakan dan memprioritaskan pemenuhan kebutuhan helikopternya pada PTDI.

Bell 412 EP merupakan helikopter serbaguna yang ditenagai sepasang engine, Pratt & Whitney PT6T-3D, dengan empat bilah rotor utama dan dua bilah rotor ekor. Helikopter ini termasuk kelas menengah dan diawaki oleh satu pilot dan satu ko-pilot serta mampu mengangkut 13 penumpang.

Helikopter Bell 412 EP merupakan Bell 412 generasi baru yang dapat diandalkan. Helikopter ini sebelumnya telah membuktikan kehandalannya dalam berbagai operasi baik di Indonesia maupun di negara-negara lain.

Di samping mampu melaksanakan misi-misi militer, Bell 412 EP mampu melaksanakan penerbangan sipil, operasi SAR, dan pemadam kebakaran. (*sun)

(Antara)

Successful NH90 Trial Onboard Canterbury

30 Juli 2012

NH90 medium helicopter first landing on the HMNZS Cabterbury (photo : NZDF)

The Air Force's newest helicopter, the NH90, has successfully completed its first landing on the Navy's multi-role vessel, HMNZS CANTERBURY.

The interface trial is the first stage of a process intended to integrate helicopter and ship operations - an important step towards the New Zealand Defence Force goal of establishing a Joint Amphibious Task Force (JATF) by 2015. While the JATF will be structured for the deployment of combat forces, the most likely contingencies it will be used for are disaster relief and conducting exercises in our region in support of nation building.

"The NH90 is a complex helicopter with significant capability and sophisticated systems and it will form an important part of the Defence Force's new Joint Amphibious Task Force," said Air Vice-Marshal Peter Stockwell, Chief of Air Force.

"When fully operational the NH90 will provide valuable support to the New Zealand Army, and Royal New Zealand Navy, as well as other Government agencies. It will vastly improve the Air Force's capability to conduct military, disaster relief, search and rescue and general helicopter support operations."

Chief of Navy, Rear-Admiral Tony Parr, says the aim of the trial is to begin proving the Defence Force's ability to land, stow and then re-launch the helicopter from the CANTERBURY.

"It's no easy task to safely land a large helicopter on a ship," he says. "Once we've established this capability the Navy will be able to transport the NH90s around New Zealand, the Pacific and further afield as necessary for military, disaster relief or other operational taskings."

Up to four NH90 helicopters will be able to be stowed in the ship's hangar. As a result of the first trial, any alterations required to the ship's aviation facilities to support NH90 operations will be identified and adjusted during the ship's scheduled maintenance programme. The second stage (planned for mid-late next year) will be conducted to determine the safe operating limits for the NH90 when operating from HMNZS CANTERBURY.

(Voxy)

Bell 212 Helicopters Grounded During Investigation

29 Juli 2012

RBAF Bell 212 helicopter (photo : Planes and Choppers)

Following the recent tragedy that shocked the nation, the Ministry of Defence stated that the remaining fleet of Bell 212 helicopters used by the military's First Squadron will be temporarily grounded.

Explaining the move to the Sunday Bulletin yesterday, the Deputy Minister of Defence, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, said the eight medium-sized choppers have ceased operations "since day one" after the incident that took the lives of a dozen young men and women just over a week ago on July 20, 2012.

The helicopters, said Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa, will not be utilised "until we establish the findings" of the special investigations jointly conducted and supported by international investigators from the United States and Canada to ascertain the cause of the tragedy that unfolded in the Ulu Belait area.

Should there be a need, the fleet of four Blackhawk S-70A choppers under the Fourth Squadron of the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) will be mobilised.

Last year, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract with US-based Sikorsky for the acquisition of a total of 12 Blackhawk S-70i helicopters in the country's bid to replace the ageing fleet of Bell 212s that has served the RBAirF for 39 years since the helicopters were first introduced to Brunei's Defence in September of 1973.

The first delivery of the anticipated and more powerful fleet is expected over a two-year period starting from next year at a total cost of approximately US$325 million.

(Borneo Bulletin)

Thailand Formally Requests Four UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters

26 Juli 2012

Sikorsky UH-60M helicopter (photo : Maciek Ramos)

WASHINGTON – The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Thailand for four UH-60M BLACK HAWK Helicopters and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $235 million.

The Government of Thailand (GoT) has requested a possible sale of four UH-60M BLACK HAWK Helicopters, 10 T700-GE-701D Engines (8 installed and 2 spares), warranty, support equipment, spare and repair parts, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, and other related logistics support. The estimated cost is $235 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United Statesby helping to improve the security of a friendly country which has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in South-East Asia.

The Government of Thailand intends to use the UH-60s to modernize its armed forces. This proposed sale will contribute to the GoT objective to update its military capabilities and improve interoperability between Thailand and the U.S., and among other allies.

The proposed sale of these helicopters and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will be Sikorsky Aircraft Company in Stratford, Connecticut; and General Electric Aircraft Company (GEAC) in Lynn, Massachusetts. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require U.S. Government representatives to travel to Thailand for a period of 5 weeks for equipment deprocessing/fielding, system checkout and new equipment training and a Contractor Furnished Service Representative (CFSR) for a period of one year.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

(US DoD)

RMAF to Receive Two New Helicopters by January Next Year

19 Juli 2012

Two from 12 EC-725 helicopter will be delivered by year end or Januari (photo : Frederic Lert)

BUTTERWORTH (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is set to take delivery of two Euro copter EC725 helicopters from the 12 it ordered, to replace the S61-A4 Sikorsky, by year end or January, next year.

RMAF chief General Tan Sri Rodzali Daud said RMAF pilots had also been sent to Franceseveral days ago to undergo training, using the new aircraft, before they are flown back to Malaysia.

"The last aircraft is expected to be delivered in January 2014. Two of the 12 aircraft will be placed at our base in Kuantan while the simulator for the new aircraft will be placed in Subang," he told reporters after handing flight wings to 41 officers who completed their training at the RMAF Base, here, today.

From the total, 25 of them, including two from the Royal Malaysian Navy, underwent advanced flight training for the Pilatus PC-7, and 16 in basic course for helicopter.

Three officers also received excellence awards during training, namely, Lt Muhammad Osman Mohd Sidek who received the Commander''s Cup for Education and Air Training (Best Academic), Lt Ezraini Azrin Khoo Mohamad Erwan Khoo (Air Force Commander''s Cup for Best Fixed Wing Flight) and Lt M Khairul Azwan Ismail received the (Nuri Cup for Best Helicopter Flight).

In addition, Rodzali said RMAF was expected to receive four new A400M aircraft to replace the Charlie aircraft in January 2015.

He said all the new aircraft would be delivered in stages and the last aircraft was currently still being put together in France.

In another development, Rodzali said RMAF was planning to replace its training aircraft with new ones that are equipped with the latest technology.

"Indeed, we have such a plan and are waiting for an allocation. The existing ones are old and need to be replaced," he added.

(Bernama)

Black Hawk and Seahawk Maintenance and Engineering Services Contract

10 Juli 2012

Australian Army Blackhawk helicopter (photo : 3AW)

Minister for Defence Stephen Smith and Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare today announced the signing of a $124.8 million contract for maintenance and engineering support for the Black Hawk and Seahawk fleet of helicopters.

The Black Hawk multi-role helicopters have been the mainstay of the Australian Defence Force’s troop lift helicopter capability since 1987.

Black Hawks can also carry out aerial reconnaissance, observation, direction of artillery fire, casualty evacuation and aerial fire support. Black Hawks also played a vital role in search and rescue and the provision of disaster relief support during the 2011 natural disasters in Australia.

The Seahawk have been a key element of Australia’s anti-submarine warfare capability since 1988.

Seahawks can deploy from Navy frigates and amphibious ships. In addition to anti-submarine warfare, Seahawks perform a wide range of roles at sea, including anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, supply and replenishment and medical evacuation.

Seahawk SW helicopter (photo : RAN)

“Black Hawk and Seahawk helicopters have been a key part of the Australian Defence Force for the last 25 years,” Mr Smith said.

“They have supported our troops on operations as well as providing important disaster relief support here in Australia.”

“For every hour in the sky, there are a lot more hours of repair and maintenance needed on the ground,” Mr Clare said.

“That’s why signing this contract is so important. The highly skilled workers at Sikorsky Helitech play an important role in keeping our helicopters flying.”

The four year contract with Sikorsky Helitech is for the provision of maintenance and engineering services in support of the Black Hawk and Seahawk fleets, with options to extend for a further six years.

(Aus DoD)

Thailand Signs LOA to be First in Southeast Asia to Operate Sikorsky UH-60M Helicopters

10 Juli 2012

Sikorsky UH-60M helicopter (photo : Jetphotos)

FARNBOROUGH AIR SHOW, London, United Kingdom - Sikorsky today announced that the Royal Thai Army has signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) to acquire two UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopters through the United States Government’s Foreign Military Sales channel. Upon delivery, Thailand will become the first member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to fly the very latest version of the BLACK HAWK helicopter operated by the U.S. Army. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).

The UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopter incorporates a variety of enhancements including a digital glass cockpit, advanced flight control system, a state-of-the-art communications suite, full night vision device capability for night operations, and other improvements that reduce pilot workload, increase lift, and provide better protection and enhanced survivability. Sikorsky expects to deliver its 500th UH-60M helicopter to the U.S. Army this summer.

“The BLACK HAWK helicopter is the standard by which all military utility helicopters are judged, and the UH-60M represents the very latest, most comprehensively equipped model that we have ever developed and delivered to the United States government. More nations are increasingly discovering its multi-mission value, outstanding performance record, and durability even in the harshest and most hostile environments,” said Samir Mehta, President of Sikorsky Military Systems. In May 2011, Sweden became the first European country to acquire UH-60M aircraft.

In August 2011, Thailand also became the first country outside the United States to take delivery of Sikorsky’s latest version of the naval BLACK HAWK utility helicopter, the MH-60S helicopter. The two new “Sierra” aircraft acquired by the Royal Thai Navy are designed for utility missions, such as logistics and troop transport. In addition, the standard searchlight and rescue hoist will enable aircrew to perform search and rescue missions.

(Sikorsky)

The RBAF Support Helicopter Project Hit Several Major Milestones

29 Juni 2012

Sikorsky S-70i for RBAF made by PZL Mielec Poland, a Sikorsky company (photo : Brunei Mindef)

POLAND - On 2 December 2011, the Ministry of Defence, Brunei Darussalam (MINDEF) signed a contract with Sikorsky International Operations, Inc. for the delivery of twelve (12) S-70i™ BLACK HAWK helicopters with spare parts, ground support equipment and training package. To date, the project has achieved several major milestones which include the completion of several design reviews and the completion of several baseline aircraft built in PZL Mielec, Poland. PZL Mielec, a Sikorsky company, which is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp, produces the S-70i™ baseline BLACK HAWK helicopter which is the latest international variant of the UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopter employed by the US Army.

A team from MINDEF recently conducted a site visit to the PZL Mielec facility in Poland to witness the factory acceptance test for Brunei’s third baseline S-70i™ BLACK HAWK helicopter. The first two baseline aircraft recently completed its factory acceptance tests in Poland in April 2012. The first aircraft is scheduled to be inducted to Sikorsky Military Completions Center (SMCC) in the United States on October 2012 for the start of customization work to produce the uniquely configured aircraft that meets the Royal Brunei Armed Forces requirements. The delivery of the twelve (12) S-70i™ BLACK HAWK helicopters will replace the current fleet of Bell 212 helicopters and enhance the Royal Brunei Air Force’s rotary wing capabilities in air mobility, Search and Rescue (SAR) and enhance surveillance of Brunei’s waters and borders. The delivery of these advanced new aircrafts will also allow the Royal Brunei Armed Forces to further strengthen its troop deployment capabilities in military and humanitarian and disaster relief operations in the region.

The first batch of the uniquely configured aircraft is expected to be delivered to Brunei in early 2014.

(BruneiMindef)

PAF to Get 25 More Helicopters in December

27 Juni 2012

PAF Huey helicopter (photo : Davis World)

MANILA, Philippines -– The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will get 25 more helicopters late this year to augment its depleting air assets.

This was announced during the Air Power Symposium 2012 held at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia in Pasay City on Friday as part of its preparation for the forthcoming 65th PAF anniversary celebration on July 6.

The symposium was hosted by Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino G. de la Cruz, PAF commanding general.

This year’s theme was “Mobilizing Air Power for the Nation’s Multi-Dimensional Challenges.”

De la Cruz said four of the helicopters will be the last of the eight brand-new combat utility Sokol choppers the Department of National Defense ordered from PZL Swidnik of Poland.

The arrival of the final four Sokol helicopters will boost the firepower of the PAF which is in dire need of air assets, particularly fighter jets.

PZL Swidnik is the largest helicopter manufacturer in Poland.

The Sokol helicopter can carry 14 persons, including the pilot and co-pilot and has a maximum speed of 260 kilometers per hour and a range of 745 kilometers non-stop.

Each Sokol is armed with a variety of weapons such as air-to-ground rockets, air-to-air missiles, M-60 machine guns and 20mm cannons and climbs to an altitude of 19,680 feet.

The contract price of the Sokol choppers was P3 billion.

On the other hand, 21 refurbished UH-1H “Huey” helicopters will also be delivered in December this year.

“Hueys” are not only the workhorse of the military’s counter-insurgency operations in ferrying troops to combat areas but are also used during disasters, carrying food, water and medicines for victims stranded in remote areas.

Some of the 21 “Huey” helicopters were refurbished in the United States and the others were done by PAF engineers and aircraft mechanics.

The acquisition of new combat helicopters is part of the Modernization Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

During the day-long affair, De la Cruz said the symposium, which is an annual event of the Air Force since 1982, except for some broken years, “is designed primarily to discuss and promote the value of air power to a wider constituency.”

But for 2012, the forum was unique as it included the holding of “a 5-in-1 activity -- an academic forum, an air power symposium, a defense exhibit, a historical photo display, and the first Youth LEAP or Youth Leader Exchange for Air Power gathering.”

“We are holding this event no longer to cater mainly to an internal audience or our friends in aviation, but to a greater multi-sectoral representation of national security stakeholders and partners.”

De la Cruz stressed the importance of air power in the country’s defense.

“Today we all live in a highly complex and unpredictable security environment, and that the threats we face demand from us no easy solutions.”

Taking advantage of today’s new technology, De la Cruz allowed questions asked via the Internet, Twitter, Facebook, or mobile phones.

The questions were flashed on the wide screen during the question-and-answer portion of the symposium that turned out to be more lively.

(Interaksyon)

New PAF Choppers to be Used for Search and Rescue

22 Juni 2012

W-3A Sokol helicopters (photo : matriks1)

MANILA, Philippines – The eight brand new combat helicopters purchased by the Philippine Air Force as part of its equipment upgrade will also be used for search and rescue operations in times of calamities, its spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Okol told Radyo Inquirer 990AM that the PAF leadership has decided to use the W-3A Sokol helicopters not only for combat but also for search and rescue operations.

Four of the eight helicopters were received by PAF last March from Polish manufacturer PZL-Swidnik SA.

By the end of the year, the brand new two-engine helicopters may be used for search and rescue operations.

Okol said they were also looking to acquire new fighter planes, radars and other equipment to beef up their operations for territorial defense.

PAF will be opening to the public its Fernando Airbase in Lipa, Batangas on July 6 as part of its 65th founding anniversary.

Okol also encouraged the public to attend their air power symposium on July 22 and participate in a fun run with PAF officers on July 24 at the Venice Piazza in McKinley Hill.

The PAF spokesman said they would like to explain to the public how the upgrade of equipment could benefit the country and its people.

(Inquirer)

TNI AL Tambah Tiga Heli Bell 412EP

13 Juni 2012

Helikopter Bell 412 TNI AL (photo : Kaskus Militer)

Tiga Heli Bell Perkuat Puspenerbal

SIDOARJO, KOMPAS.com - Tiga helikopter jenis Bell-412 EP memperkuat jajaran Pusat Penerbangan Angkatan Laut, Juanda, Sidoarjo, Jawa Timur, Rabu (13/6/2012). Helikopter ini akan difungsikan sebagai angkutan taktis dan dukungan logistik cepat.

"Helikopter ini akan memperkuat Skuadron 400 Wing Udara 1 dan Wing Udara 2," kata Komandan Puspenerbal, Laksamana Utama TNI Sugianto. Tiga helikopter tersebut diproduksi oleh Textron Kanada dan disempurnakan oleh PT Dirgantara.

Ketiga helikopter ini, kata Sugianto, memiliki kelebihan, yaitu antara lain sistem pilot otomatis. "Fitur ini penting karena terbang di atas laut lebih sulit," kata Sugianto.

(Kompas)

Six EC725 Combat SAR for Indonesian Air Force was Signed Between PT DI and Eurocopter

06 April 2012

EC-725 Combat SAR helicopter (photo : Eurucopter)

Eurocopter to supply six EC725 combat search and rescue helicopters to PT Dirgantara Indonesia for customization and delivery to Indonesian Air Force

A contract is signed today between Eurocopter and PT Dirgantara Indonesia/Indonesian Aerospace for the supply of six EC725. To be received in 2014, Indonesian Aerospace will customize and deliver these combat search and rescue configured helicopters to the Indonesian Air Force under a contract signed with the Indonesian Ministry of Defence last month.

The aircraft, for delivery from Eurocopter starting in 2014, will be shipped to Indonesian Aerospace's facility in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, where they will be reassembled and customized before delivery to the Indonesian Air Force under a contract signed, between the Ministry of Defence and Indonesian Aerospace, on 12th March 2012. The EC725, a combat-proven multi-role helicopter in the 11-ton class, was selected by the Air Force in 2011 to meet its requirements for a Combat Search and Rescue capable helicopter fleet.

"The selection of the EC725 by the Air Force is a renewed demonstration of the confidence that the Indonesian Air Force has in the Super Puma family of helicopters and enables Eurocopter to further strengthen its long standing relationship with Indonesian Aerospace relating to the Super Puma family," said Olivier Lambert, Eurocopter’s Senior Vice President for Sales and Customer Relations.

The EC725, a member of Eurocopter's successful Super Puma/Cougar family, will further extend Indonesian Aerospace's involvement with the type. As well as building several SA330 Puma and AS332 Super Puma under license in Bandung for the Air Force, Indonesian Aerospace has held a contract with Eurocopter since 2008 for the manufacture of EC225 and EC725 tail booms and complete airframe assemblies.

"This contract for the EC725 will propel Indonesian Aerospace into a new era of co-operation with Eurocopter, enhancing the company's capabilities at the forefront of rotorcraft technology," stated Budi Santoso, President Director of Indonesian Aerospace.

(Eurocopter)

PAF Not Giving Up on Aged, Battered Hueys

17 Maret 2012

Philippine Air Force currently has 40 Huey helicopters (photo :TriztaN19)

BUTUAN CITY, Philippines -- The crash of another Philippine Air Force UH-1H Huey helicopter in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte last Sunday has again revived questions about whether the Vietnam War-era aircraft ought to be retired and replaced.

The PAF currently has 40 Hueys, which have served as the workhorse of the armed forces for transporting troops and supplies, and for search and rescue operations since the late 1970's.
In December 2010, the US turned over five refurbished Hueys to the Air Force.

But the PAF’s Huey fleet has been plagued by deaths and injuries from numerous crashes since the late 1980s, earning the aged choppers the derisive nickname, “flying coffins.”

Last year alone, five personnel were injured in a crash on April 1 and three lives were lost in another mishap in Sulu last October.

The incident in Kitcharao, the first this year, saw seven injuries.

Despite this, Lieutenant Colonel Elpedio Talja, commander of the PAF’s Tactical Operations Group 10 based in Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro City, said: “We are still confident that with proper maintenance, the ‘Huey’ is still airworthy and an essential part of our air force. Our existing helicopters are still reliable and perform well. All that is needed are good checkups and spare parts.”

He said the Air Force has no plans yet of retiring the existing UH-1H fleet, which will be working together with the recently arrived PZL Swidnik W-3 Sokols from Poland.

“The purchase of eight Sokol combat utility helicopters is a welcome (development) for the armed forces. Actually there are many modernization projects in the pipeline; a lot of plans are in the works like long range patrol aircraft, light attack helicopters and fighter aircraft,” he said.

Last February, four of the eight Sokols, which are based on the Soviet Hind attack helicopters, were delivered to the Philippine government. The remaining choppers will be delivered in the second half of the year.

As it is, the PAF remains way behind other air forces in the region.

The last of F-5 Freedom fighters, which had been used for decades as interceptors for external defense, were decommissioned in September 2005.

The need for long-range patrol aircraft like the US’ P-3 Orion, has also been in discussion since the late 1990's as part of military’s modernization program.

(InterAksyon)

Tiga Unit Helikopter Bell-412 Perkuat TNI

02 Maret 2012

Bell 412 TNI Angkatan Laut (photo : Kaskus Militer)

Bandung (ANTARA) - PT Dirgantara Indonesia menyerahkan tiga unit helikopter Bell-412 kepada Kementerian Pertahanan untuk operasional TNI Angkatan Darat dan TNI Angkatan Laut.

Penyerahan dilakukan Direktur PT DI Budi Santoso kepada Wakil Asisten Logistik Kasad Brigjen TNI Nengah Widana, Asisten Logistik Kasal Laksda TNI Sru Handayanto di hanggar helikopter PT Dirgantara Indonesia di Bandung, Jumat.

Penyerahan tiga capung besi itu disaksikan Menteri Pertahanan Purnomo Yusgiantoro, Asisten Logistik Panglima TNI Mayjen TNI Hari Krisnomo, Kasal Laksamana TNI Soeparno dan Wakil Kasad Letjen TNI Budiman.

Tiga helikopter yang diserahkan itu terdiri atas dua unit Bell-412 EP untuk TNI Angkatan Darat dan satu unit Bell-412 EP untuk TNI Angkatan Laut.

Pengadaan tiga helikopter produksi bersama Bell Helicopter--divisi Textron Inc. dan PT Dirgantara Indonesia itu menggunakan APBN Tahun Anggaran 2011.

Kementerian Pertahanan menyatakan penyerahan dua helikopter itu merupakan bagian dari rencana strategis peningkatan skuadron udara serbu Puspenerbad dengan 32 helikopter yang terdiri atas 24 unit helikopter serbu dan delapan helikopter serang.

Helikopter angkur/serbu merupakan helikopter medium dengan kapasitas 15 personel. Helikopter ini sudah dioperasikan Skuadron-11/serbu dan Skuadron-21/Sena Puspenerbad.

Begitu pun satu unit Bell-412 2 EP. Helikopter itu merupakan helikopter generasi terakhir yang masuk jajaran Skuadron 400 Puspenerbal.

Skuadron-400 Puspenerbal telah mengoperasikan Bell-412 SP dan Bell-412 HP.

Helikopter Bell-412 EP merupakan seri terbaru di kelasnya dan merupakan helikopter angkut militer yang andal dengan kemampuan angkut 10-15 personel serta mampu mengangkut beban sekitar tiga ton.

Meski berfungsi sebagai helikopter angkut militer, helikopter tersebut dapat dipersenjatai dengan senapan mesin untuk mendukung kegiatan operasi militer.

Direktur PT DI Budi Santoso mengatakan dalam waktu dekat akan diserahkan kembali dua unit TNI AD dan dua unit TNI AL.

"Ini komitmen PT DI dan TNI untuk memprioritaskan pengadaan alutsista dari dalam negeri, dan dapat bersaing secara kompetitif,". (rr)

(Antara)

Sikorsky Puts in Bid to Supply 16 Choppers

25 Februari 2012

S-92 helicopter. Sikorsky is seeking to expand its market in Thailand by bidding to supply choppers for the kingdom’s first dedicated search and rescue operation. (photo : AirShowsReview)

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp, the US helicopter producer known for its Black Hawk make, is seeking to expand its market in Thailand by putting a bid to supply aircraft for the kingdom's first dedicated search and rescue operation.

The Connecticut-based company will contest in a competitive international bid to be issued next week by the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) to deliver up to 16 helicopters for SAR missions in a transaction that could reach a value of more than US$320 million (9.8 billion baht).

Sikorsky will pitch its S-92, the larger advanced utility which can carry up to 19 passengers in airline-style configuration, against other bidders in the RTAF contest, Daniel Zsebik, Sikorsky's director for sales in Asia, told the Bangkok Post in Bangkok.

Although the RTAF's programme involves 16 helicopters, its initial budget would allow the procurement of four.

Depending on how the chopper is equipped with sophisticated technology and add-ons, an S-92 could cost $20-24 million a piece, Mr Zsebik said.

Included in its bid will be the training of RTAF pilots in the US and Britain in operating the S-92 as well as sending Sikorsky's own trainer pilots to Thailand to assist Thai pilots to ensure they can handle the aircraft properly.

Ahead of the RTAF bid, Sikorsky this week staged a series of demonstration flights over Greater Bangkok skies to the Thai armed forces to show off the S-92's multi-mission capabilities.

The Thai visit is part of an Asian tour of S-92 "Legacy of Heroes" (LOH) helicopter and includes Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore and India - all considered potential buyers of the aircraft for different purposes including for SAR, as offshore oil rig transport and as a carrier for heads of state.

Thai armed forces already have Sikorsky helicopters in their fleets - Black Hawks with the Royal Thai Army, S-92s at the RTAF (used as carriers for royals) and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) which flies Sea Hawks and S-76s which can carry 12 people.

The S-92 has a range of 880km with a top speed of 306km/hour.

(Bangkok Post)

New Helicopters Take to the Air after Long Flight

17 Februari 2012

FIRST FLIGHT: The air force's two new NH90 helicopters had their first flights on Tuesday, since being delivered to Ohakea Air Force Base in December. (photo : NZDF)

The air force's new helicopters have had their first test flight since arriving in the country, but the results are being kept under wraps.

Defence spokesman Paul Stein confirmed two NH90s were taken for flights on Tuesday with staff from Nato Helicopter Industries (NHI) "to make sure all the controls and instruments and everything were working as they should since being shipped over from France".

Mr Stein said the results of the test flights could not be released yet due to "commercial sensitivity".
Two new NH90 helicopters were delivered to Ohakea Air Force Base on December 6 on board a Russian Antonov AN124 cargo aeroplane – one of the biggest aircraft in the world.

Six more NH90s were still to be delivered, with the Ministry of Defence hoping the next two could arrive as early as next month.

They will be delivered in three more shipments of two helicopters on board the Antonov, with each trip estimated to cost about $1.6 million, but could vary depending on fuel costs.

Nine NH90s were ordered in 2006 at a cost of $771m.

They will replace the air force's Vietnam War-era Iroquois helicopters that have been in service for more than 40 years.

They will be on display to the public at next month's Royal New Zealand Air Force's 75th Anniversary Air Show, along with a number of other aircraft from six different countries.

The French Armed Forces of New Caledonia, Singapore Air Force, Royal Air Force, Australian Air Force, United States Air Force, and United States Marine Corps will join with the New Zealand Air Force to perform air and ground displays at Ohakea on March 31.

(Stuff)

Sikorsky Aerospace Services Announces the Signing of a Basic Ordering Agreement with the Brunei Ministry of Defence

16 Februari 2012

Sikorsky S-70i Blackhawk (photo : Mexico.vg)

SINGAPORE AIR SHOW, Singapore - Sikorsky Aerospace Services today announced the signing of a Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA) with the Brunei Ministry of Defence as part of Sikorsky’s recent overarching sales contract to provide 12 S-70i™ BLACK HAWK helicopters to the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAF).

This five-year agreement will support the S-70i aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2013, and the RBAF’s current BLACK HAWK fleet. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
“We have a long history of aftermarket support to the Royal Brunei Air Force. This support contract gives the RBAF the flexibility to streamline procurement of parts and services for optimum fleet maintenance We look forward to evolving our relationship as their BLACK HAWK fleet continues to grow,” said David Adler, President of Sikorsky Aerospace Services. “SAS continuously strives to provide ‘best-in-class’ support to our worldwide customers.”

(Sikorsky)

PAF Gets 4 New Choppers

15 Februari 2012

PAF W-3 Sokol helicopter (photo : imagenesmilitares)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday disclosed the arrival of four brand new Combat Utility Helicopters from the Augusta PZL Swidik of Italy and Poland on February 14, 2012.

The PAF hierarchy said the brand new helicopters arrived at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga, and is the first batch of the eight helicopters that the PAF is to receive from the Polish aircraft manufacturer.

Major General Catalino G. Dela Cruz, PAF Commanding General, said the delivery of the new helicopters is a welcome addition to the fleet of the PAF.

He said that the formal blessing and turnover of the PAF’s newest acquisition will be announced following the completion of assembly and rigid test flights to be conducted on the new helicopters.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Ernesto G. Okol, PAF Public Information Office director, the “Sokol” or Falcon in Polish, can be fitted with various equipment – depending on the mission – that makes it an ideal utility helicopter for the PAF.

It is NVG (Night Vision Goggle)-capable and is equipped with an SN 350 Autopilot, he added.
Compared to the Huey helicopters, he said the “Sokol” is a more capable utility platform.

Okol explained that while the Huey can carry only seven passengers, the “Sokol” can accommodate 10 passengers with a maximum takeoff weight of 14,110 pounds, an endurance of three hours and 19 minutes, and it can reach a maximum range of 402 nautical miles in a single flight, with airspeed of about 140.5 knots.

The “Sokol” is fitted with gun mounts for the M60D MG on both sides, and when utilized during search and rescue (SAR) or over water operations, it can be equipped with pilot-controlled Emergency Floatation Gear attached to the lowest portion of the aircraft.

It can also perform various missions other than combat to support the country’s peace and development efforts.

“The CUH project is worth P2.8 billion, and has undergone the rigid screening process prior to its procurement,” Okol said.

(Manila Bulletin)

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