28 Januari 2012

Polish-made combat utility helicopter for PAF (photo ; modernize PAF)

MANILA, (PNA) – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will get the first delivery by the middle of next month of four of eight brand-new combat utility helicopters it ordered from PZL Swidnik of Poland.

Lt. Col. Mike Okol, PAF spokesman, told the Philippines News Agency that the remaining four helicopters will be delivered in November, also this year.

PZL Swidnik is the biggest helicopter manufacturer in Poland. Its main products are the PZL W-3 Sokol and PZL WS-4 helicopters used by the Polish Air Force and other European countries.

The PAF bought the eight Polish-made helicopters at a contract price of P3 billion.

The arrival of four utility combat helicopters is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization program to boost the PAF’s air power, particularly supporting ground troops during combat operations.

The PAF has in its arsenal the reliable UH-1H “Huey” helicopters and the MD-520-MG gunships from the United States.

The Polish company won the bidding to supply the PAF eight brand-new combat utility choppers.

The funds for the purchase of the choppers were part of the AFP modernization budget in 2007.

Okol said the acquisition of these helicopters is timely because the Air Force badly needs helicopters of this type to support government ground forces during combat operations.

The Swidnik 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.

It can climb to an altitude of 19,680 feet, more than twice that of the “Huey.”
The Polish-made choppers can be armed with a variety of weapons, air-to-ground rockets, air-to-air missiles, M-60 machine guns and 20-mm cannons.

(PNA)

24 Januari 2012

ADF's Blackhawk helicopter (photo : Bruce Linwood)

Army’s Black Hawk helicopters have returned to full flying operations following the lifting of the recent suspension. The suspension was put in place on 19 January following the identification of a number of fractured bolts during a routine maintenance check.

The Commander of Forces Command, Major General Michael Slater, as the Army Operational Airworthiness Authority has lifted the precautionary suspension following airworthiness advice from the Technical Airworthiness Authority.

The suspension demonstrates Army’s commitment to safety. The temporary safety precaution was effected while a thorough engineering investigation was carried out following the discovery of the defective bolts.

The engineering investigation indicated that the defective bolts were confined to a single manufacturer’s batch and were not a fleet wide issue. The defective batch of bolts has been quarantined from use.

The Australian Army operates 34 Black Hawk aircraft. Of that fleet, three are deployed to Timor Leste, and the remaining aircraft are based in Holsworthy NSW and Townsville QLD.

The Navy Seahawk helicopters differ significantly to the Army Black Hawk and were not affected by the suspension.

(Aus DoD)

See Also :

Precautionary Suspension of Black Hawk Flying Operations

21 Januari 2012

Army has temporarily suspended flying operations for the Black Hawk helicopters upon identifying a number of fractured bolts during a routine maintenance check.

Acting Director General Aviation, Colonel Stephen Evans said the suspension, which commenced on 19 January, was to ensure safety and is consistent with Army Operational Airworthiness procedures.

“The precautionary suspension will remain in place to allow an investigation into the cause of the fracture to be completed,” Colonel Evans said.

Three Army Black Hawks are assigned to Joint Task Force 631 in Timor Leste. Emergency aero-medical evacuations for International Stabilisation Force personnel in Timor Leste remain authorised during the temporary suspension.

The Navy Seahawk helicopters differ significantly to the Black Hawk in the affected area, and Seahawk flying operations have not been suspended.

(Aus DoD)

27 Desember 2011

An EC225 helicopter lands Sunday morning at Vung Tau Airport in the southern province of Ba Rai-Vung Tau. (all photos : Tuoi Tre)

The Vietnamese Navy received Sunday morning two EC225 helicopters, made by French helicopter manufacturer Eurocopter, in a ceremony at Vung Tau Airport in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.

The EC225 is a long-range passenger transport aircraft with an integrated display system and a digital four-axis autopilot.

Commander of the Vietnamese Navy Admiral Nguyen Van Hien (2nd right) and other delegates at Sunday morning's ceremony to receive two EC225 helicopters at Vung Tau Airport in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.

The chopper, which is designed for offshore patrol and search and rescue missions, can fly at up to 260 kilometers per hour and reach a flying range of 900 km.

It has seating arrangements for 19 passengers, with an 11-tonne loaded weight.

Inside the cockpit of the EC225

Commander of the Vietnamese Navy Admiral Nguyen Van Hien and Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Vietnamese People’s Army Lieutenant General Tran Quang Khue attended this morning’s event, together with many other high-ranking officers of the country’s navy and air force.

An exhibition flight carrying the delegates was conducted shortly after the ceremony.

One of the two EC225 helicopters flies over Vung Tau sky this morning in an exhibition flight.

The Navy also announced a decision to form an EC225 helicopter squadron on this occasion.

Above are four photos taken by Tuoi Tre reporters Sunday morning.

(Tuoitrenews)

16 December 2011

RAN's Sea King helicopters (photo : Aus DoD)

The Royal Australian Navy’s Sea King helicopters and 817 Squadron have made their final flight as part of a decommissioning ceremony held at HMAS Albatross in Nowra today.

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon and Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, were on hand to welcome the final flight and thank the 817 Squadron who operated the helicopters.

“Australia’s Sea Kings are being retired after a remarkable 35 years serving in times of conflict, peacekeeping, natural disaster, search and rescue and national celebration,” Mr Snowdon said.
“In particular I’d like to thank the men and women of the 817 Squadron past and present, who have served with distinction over the past 48 years.”

“They have lived up to their motto ‘Aude Facere’ – ‘Dare To Do’, and have always served Australia with professionalism and skill.”

“They were there for the 1994 bushfires, the 1998 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, the 2001 North NSW floods and just this year in the South East Queensland flood relief.”

“I also pay tribute to those who have lost their lives while serving in 817 Squadron, their service and sacrifice must never be forgotten,” he said.

The Australian Government announced in June, that Sea King shark 07 would be included in the Fleet Air Arm Museum in Nowra, to preserve the Sea Kings’ heritage for future generations.

Commander Paul Moggach, the 817 Squadron’s Commanding Officer, led a formation leaving from the Naval Air Station at HMAS Albatross yesterday.

The formation made a flying visit up the NSW coast, arriving over Sydney for a flight up Sydney Harbour, followed by a flyover the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Navy Vice Admiral Ray Griggs described today’s ceremony as a fitting end to a remarkable career for both the personnel of 817 Squadron and the Sea King Helicopters.

“The Sea Kings are commonly known as the Mack trucks of the skies. All who have maintained and operated them feel honoured to have done so,” Vice Admiral Griggs said.

“After 35 years, it is time to look to the future with a new generation of aircraft.

“The personnel of 817 Squadron are first rate members of the Navy.

“They’ll now apply their experience, commitment and expertise in other roles throughout the Navy and ADF Aviation, and I wish them well in their new roles,” said Vice Admiral Griggs.

(Aus DoD)

15 Desember 2011

The 15th MRH90 (Multi-Role Helicopter) with tail number 014 (photo : Australian Aerospace)

Local defence manufacturer, Australian Aerospace, yesterday delivered the 15th MRH90 (Multi-Role Helicopter), tail number 014, to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) – the second such handover in two weeks following signing of an agreement to overcome Program issues and ensure timely delivery of the world’s most advanced helicopters.

Australian Aerospace’s production facility on Brisbane Airport is assembling and delivering 46 MRH90s to replace Army and Navy Black Hawk and Sea King helicopters. Since the helicopter’s entry to service, Australian Aerospace, its industry partners and the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), have been working to introduce the new capability into service.

On 23 November, Australian Aerospace and the Commonwealth of Australia signed a Deed of Agreement, encompassing a remediation plan to overcome a number of identified issues, including an engine failure and oil cooler fan issues, and ensure timely deliveries of the MRH90s. One week later, Defence accepted the 14th helicopter.

“The delivery of the 15th MRH90, just two weeks after signing the Deed of Agreement is very encouraging indeed,” said Dr. Jens Goennemann, Chief Executive Officer of Australian Aerospace. “It augurs well for the Program’s future and is a strong sign of our commitment to delivering the capability to Defence”.

Capable of carrying 2 pilots, 2 loadmasters and 18 combat troops up to 900km at speeds in excess of 300 km/h, the MRH90 is a fly-by-wire, all-composite construction, medium-lift helicopter with the highest crash-worthiness standards. Chosen by Australia over competing types as part of a program to modernise and rationalise its military helicopter fleet, the MRH90 is the world’s most advanced helicopter in the ten-tonne class.

About Australian Aerospace

With more than 1100 staff in Australia and New Zealand, Australian Aerospace has access to the financial strength and expertise of Eurocopter and the EADS Group.

At its production facility on Brisbane Airport, Australian Aerospace currently is supporting 22 Tiger ARH armed reconnaissance helicopters to the Australian Army and assembling and delivering 46 MRH90 Multi-Role Helicopters to the Army and Navy.

In addition to its helicopter capabilities, Australian Aerospace supports the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) AP-3C Orion reconnaissance aircraft and C-130J Hercules transports.

The company is also involved in supporting the RAAF’s new Airbus A330-based Multi-Role Tanker-Transport (MRTT) aircraft and F/A18 (Classic) Hornet fighters.

(Eurocopter)

08 Desember 2011

Sikorsky S-61 "Nuri" helicopters (photo : Jetphotos)

LIMA, Malaysia - Sikorsky Aerospace Services today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with AIROD Sdn. Bhd. (AIROD) of Malaysia and Aviation Design Centre Sdn. Bhd. (ADC) to explore aircraft maintenance and support opportunities for Sikorsky’s S-61/H-3 platforms including the most recent variant, the S-61T^™ helicopter. AIROD performs maintenance, repair and overhaul services for various commercial and military aircraft. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).

“This MOU represents the first step in discussing potential support capabilities for the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s S-61 platform. It is our strategic objective to provide customized solutions to a wide range of customers with complex fleet requirements,” said Samir Mehta, SAS Vice-President & Chief Operating Officer.

The S-61 helicopter has a 50-year history of reliably performing missions for the U.S. and foreign militaries. The upgraded S-61 can be outfitted to meet a wide variety of requirements and provides superior value for a mid-size, multi-mission helicopter. As Sikorsky’s launch customer, the U.S. State Department entered into a five-year agreement with the option to purchase up to 110 upgraded S-61 aircraft for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations. Building on the legacy as one of the most dependable aircraft in the aerospace industry, SAS initiated the S-61 Upgrade Program in early 2010. While pursuing other global opportunities, SAS is currently in contract discussions with potential commercial and military customers throughout Europe and Asia.

“AIROD is pleased to explore collaboration directly with the OEM, and we look forward to working closely with SAS in the support of S-61 aircraft,” said Tan Sri Dato’ Ahmad Johan, Chairman, AIROD Sdn. Bhd.

“We are very pleased to sign this MOU with both SAS and AIROD and to discuss support opportunities regarding Sikorsky’s S-61 Upgrade Program. This opportunity aligns with our objective to advance ADC’s aerospace capabilities,” said Major General Dato’ Ir. Ibrahim Bahari, Chief Executive Office, ADC.

Aviation Design Centre Sdn. Bhd. (ADC) was established in 1997 with the aim of sustaining the growth of the aviation industry and promoting advanced aerospace technology in Malaysia. ADC is currently an ISO 9001:2008 certified company and also complies with the Department of Civil Aviation Malaysia (DCAM) and other Regulatory Airworthiness requirements.

AIROD, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Aerospace & Defence Industries Sdn. Bhd. (NADI), was established in 1976 primarily to embark on “self-reliance” as a defense strategy and to spearhead the development of the aerospace industry in Malaysia. Today, AIROD is a leading MRO and modification center with world-class facilities to support various fixed and rotary wing aircraft for both civil and military aircraft market.

Sikorsky Aerospace Services, a Sikorsky company, provides comprehensive support to rotary and fixed wing operators worldwide. It offers its military and commercial customers a full portfolio of aftermarket support services, including material distribution, MRO, aircraft modifications and life-cycle support. Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corporation, based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide.

(Sikorsky)

07 Desember 2011

First EC725 Helicopter for RMAF (photo : Eurocopter)

The Royal Malaysian Air Force’s first EC725 helicopter is unveiled at the LIMA 2011 exhibition in a live video broadcast from Eurocopter’s French headquarters

Langkawi, Malaysia, The production roll-out of Eurocopter’s no. 1 EC725 helicopter for the Royal Malaysian Air Force was shown today with a live video broadcast from the company’s Marignane, France facility, which was beamed to the Langkawi Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) for an audience that included Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and Defense Minister Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

It is the first of 12 EC725s to be acquired by Malaysia for search & rescue and utility missions under terms of a contract signed in 2010. Eurocopter remains on schedule for this important acquisition program, with a total of eight helicopters already in production – and the no. 1 aircraft soon to enter flight testing. The Malaysian EC725 deliveries will begin next year and continue through early 2014.

“We wanted to share this on-time milestone with Malaysia, providing attendees at LIMA 2011 with an initial look at the newest helicopter that will serve the country in a variety of operations,” said Eurocopter President & CEO Lutz Bertling. “The top priority at Eurocopter is meeting its commitments to customers, and Malaysia can count on our company’s dedication in delivering helicopters that fulfill the nation’s mission requirements.

”In today’s roll-out broadcast from Eurocopter’s Marignane headquarters and production site, the no. 1 EC725 was presented by the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s on-site project team, led by Col. Tuan Mustafa.

Expressing his appreciation to Eurocopter, Defense Minister Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said, “This is a highly appreciated gesture on the part of Eurocopter. We have full confidence that all 12 helicopters will be delivered on time. The EC725 fleet represents a significant step towards strengthening the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s capability. In addition, cooperation projects related to the supply of the EC725s also are moving along smoothly, ensuring that Malaysia’s aviation industry is developing with the right skills and knowledge.

”As part of the EC725 contract, an agreement for 13 strategic cooperation projects was signed – including the integration of Malaysian industry into Eurocopter’s global supply chain, and the development of joint ventures with local companies to establish an in-country MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) facility, a regional EC725/EC225 full-flight simulator center, and other capabilities. The MRO and flight simulator installations are being created together with the Boustead Group, and all 13 cooperative projects will be aligned with Malaysia’s goals of enhancing its industrial capabilities and economic strength through technology transfer and strategic partnerships.

To support the deliveries of Malaysia’s new EC725s and enhance Eurocopter’s in-country support and services activities, the company’s Eurocopter Malaysia subsidiary will be moving in July 2012 from its main facility in Subang to a new, expanded site within the Malaysian International Aerospace Center – doubling its capacity.

(Eurocopter)

06 Desember 2011

The RNZAF has taken delivery of its first - two new - NH90s helicopters arriving with an Antonov An-124 cargo plane. (all photos : RNZAF)

Two new NH90 helicopters will arrive at Ohakea at 9.30am, after being airlifted from France on board an Antonov AN 124 transport aircraft, Defence Minister Wayne Mapp said today.

“These helicopters will provide a quantum leap in capability for the RNZAF,” said Dr Mapp. “The NH90s will give the NZDF better capability to conduct military, counter-terrorism, disaster relief, search and rescue, and other operations.

“The NH90s have over three times the power of the current Iroquois and can carry more than twice the payload further and faster.

“They have twin engines for better safety over water. They will also be able to operate from the HMNZ Canterbury which will add tremendously to her versatility,” said Dr Mapp.

“The Iroquois has been a fantastic workhorse for over 40 years. But they are overdue for replacement,” said Dr Mapp.

Six more NH90s will be progressively delivered from next year. Earlier this year the RNZAF received five new A109 helicopters to replace the old Sioux helicopters.

Dr Mapp said the new NH90s will complement the new direction that the NZDF is taking as a result of the White Paper.

“These helicopters are another step in the modernisation of the NZDF. The recently released Capability Plan details a range of new projects that will further the modernisation agenda.

“This includes new advanced training aircraft, upgrading or replace the Seasprite helicopters, a replacement for the Endeavour and new trucks,” said Dr Mapp.

(Beehive)

02 Desember 2011

Bell 412 of the Indonesian Army Aviation (photo : Detik)

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced today it has received five firm orders with two potential follow-on orders for Bell 412s from PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) for delivery to government agencies in Indonesia.

"Bell Helicopter has had a long partnership with PTDI in Indonesia," said Larry D. Roberts, senior vice president, Bell Helicopter’s Commercial Business.

“The sale of these helicopters is part of the framework of an ongoing industrial collaboration between our two companies," Roberts said. "We believe our partnership will continue to grow and possibly expand in the future."

The five Bell 412s are expected to be delivered to PTDI by the end of the year. PTDI will then transport them to Bandung, Indonesia, where local content and customer specific mission equipment will be added prior to PTDI making final delivery to end-users.

In 2010, Bell Helicopter announced plans to extend the capability and performance of the Bell 412EP through a series of upgrades which are expected to be available to customers in 2012.

"The Bell 412 has had tremendous success in the region. It is well-known throughout the world for its reliability and multi-mission capabilities. We are committed to continuing to invest in the Bell 412 and will evolve it based on customer feedback and mission requirements," Roberts said.

The upgrade program entails a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) project that is intended to extend the wide range of missions that can be performed by the Bell 412EP consisting of an engine and flight deck upgrade, which will be available in 3-axis and 4-axis options.

The engine upgrade, in partnership with Pratt & Whitney Inc., is designed to provide a 15 percent engine SHP increase, improved OEI and hot/high performance and introduction of electronic engine control. The upgrade will yield a 10-12 percent increase in CAT A/PC1 & PC2 performance, increased hot/high capability and provides a path for a future upgrade for increased range and payload.

The flight deck upgrade will provide a modern glass flight deck – leveraging the well-received glass flight deck in the new Bell 429 – by utilizing hardware common to that aircraft, specifically display units. This will provide commonality in the cockpits of Bell Helicopter’s light twin and medium twin aircraft, simplifying pilot familiarity and maintenance training.

The planned engine and flight deck upgrades are in addition to an earlier Bell 412EP STC for the BLR FastFin™ System. The FastFin™ upgrade, certified by Transport Canada and the Federal Aviation Administration and available today, increases HOGE and HIGE performance limits and expands the lifting capacity of the Bell 412EP, providing more tail rotor reserve authority, improving hover stability, high/hot performance, crosswind capabilities, and payload, while reducing pilot workload and lowering operating costs through fuel savings.

Earlier this year, Bell Helicopter broke ground on a new Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Singapore's Seletar Aerospace Park dedicated to customer support and service for the Asia-Pacific region. The new facility, which Bell Helicopter will operate in partnership with Cessna, will replace and augment the existing Bell Helicopter Supply Center and strengthen the company's sales presence in the Asia Pacific region, as well as add parts distribution and maintenance capabilities for Cessna operators in the region.

"Bell Helicopter is focused on continually improving the customer experience and remains committed to transforming the model for commercial aviation aircraft support – finding innovative ways of supporting our customers around the world and leading the way in new and emerging markets," said R. Danny Maldonado, senior vice president, Bell Helicopter's Customer Support and Chief Services Officer.

"With more than 6,000 helicopters flying in more than 12 countries, Asia Pacific has the second largest fleet of aircraft in the world. Adding this new service center is one way we are demonstrating that commitment to our customers throughout the Asia Pacific region," Maldonado said.

The Bell 412 is backed by Bell Helicopter's industry-leading customer support and service that has earned it – voted by our customers – the #1 ranking in Professional Pilot magazine for 17 consecutive years as well as #1 in Aviation International News for a sixth consecutive time.

(Bell Helicopter)

23 November 2011

MRH-90 helicopter of the Royal Australian Navy (photo : Jetphotos)

Ongoing problems hit Defence's $2 billion MRH 90 choppers

THE $2 billion contract for 46 MRH 90 European-built multi-role helicopters is a "project of concern".

Military sources say the project will be added to the Government's so-called "projects of concern" list if the Minister for Defence Materiel, Jason Clare, accepts the recommendation of the latest "diagnostic review" of the project.

So far just 13 of the 46 machines have been accepted by Defence and the delivery schedule is running more than 18 months late.

A source said the chopper still had major problems with its navigation systems and the review would recommend that it be added to the list of shame.

The MRH 90 will be the second helicopter project to make the shame list after the Sea Sprite Navy helicopter debacle that cost taxpayers more than $1 billion before it was abandoned.

There are nine projects on the list, ranging from submarine sustainment to stand-off missiles and all companies involved, including multi-nationals such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin, are barred from further taxpayer-funded contracts until their project is removed from the list.

The high-tech fly-by-wire composite twin-engine MRH 90 helicopter is built by European giant Eurocopter.

It is assembled in Brisbane by its subsidiary Australian Aerospace.

The project has been dogged by serious technical issues including an engine failure due to overheating, cracked windscreens, soft cargo flooring and avionic and navigation problems.

It is the latter that continues to cause problems, especially for the navy variant when the choppers are operating from ships.

According to insiders, the MRH 90 will be a very capable helicopter once all the bugs are ironed out, but it is another example of taxpayers funding untested cutting-edge military technology.

Despite its small relative size, Defence has lost billions of dollars and suffered countless delays over the years by signing up for unproven cutting-edge equipment.

It is understood that the Government and Australian Aerospace are about to sign an agreement with a new timetable for fixing the outstanding faults and getting deliveries back on track by March next year.

(Adelaide Now)

22 November 2011

Surion helicopter (photo : ArmsChairGeneral)

MANILA, Philippines — President Aquino has expressed interest to acquire new helicopters and other military equipment from South Korea amid efforts to modernize the country’s Armed Forces.

The President sought closer defense cooperation between Manila and Seoul during an “extensive” meeting with South Korean President Lee Myung-back on bilateral and multilateral issues and concerns in Malacañang.

Lee arrived in Manila last Sunday for a three-day state visit that includes meetings with businessmen and a town hall meeting with college students.

(Manila Bulletin)

16 November 2011

S-70i is an export version of Blackhawk helicopter (photo : PZL)

BOLKIAH GARRISON - The Ministry of Defence of Brunei Darussalam is pleased to announce the contract award for the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Support Helicopter Project to Sikorsky International Operations, Inc, United States of America.

The project is for the supply of twelve (12) BLACKHAWK S-70i helicopters to replace the current fleet of Bell 212 and BO105 helicopters and to enhance the Royal Brunei Air Force’s rotary wing capacity to meet the requirement for a single wave tactical air lift as identified in the Defence White Paper Update 2007.

The delivery of these advanced new aircrafts will also allow the RBAF to further strengthen its troop deployment capabilities in military and humanitarian operations to fulfil its national and international obligation.

In February 2011, MINDEF’s Centre of Science and Technology, Research and Development (CSTRAD) issued the Invitation to Tender for the project to four reputable vendors. Each vendor was requested to propose an innovative helicopter replacement solution suitable to meet the RBAF’s needs. In July 2011, MINDEF down-selected Sikorsky International Operations, Inc. and Eurocopter SAS following a thorough assessment of the vendors’ proposals.

The helicopters are expected to be delivered in Brunei Darussalam between 2013 to 2015.

(Brunei Mindef)

09 November 2011

Two aircraft from the approved six MH-60S Knight Hawk entered to operational (all photos : Sukasom Hiranphan/TAF)

Navy has signed procurement of two aircraft from the approved six aircraft an MH-60S Knight Hawk helicopter in 2006 and now the helicopters were handed over to the Thai Navy.

The noticeable difference between the SH-60B Sea Hawk and is the Royal Thai Navy's MH-60S Knight Hawk, it is the position of the wheel base pairs, after the Sea Hawk it stay in the body, but in Knight Hawk will be back in a position similar to the UH-60 Black Hawk.

For the MH-60S Knight Hawk of the Royal Thai Navy has installed modern equipment. The mission control system of the Lockheed Martin also has a flashlight and rescue hoists. As well as being equipped with terrain following radar and infrared cameras, which allows Knight Hawk as a common transport missions. tactical transport missions, special operations including search and rescue missions. The Knight Hawk helicopter the most modern and best equipped to rescue in Thailand today.

The Royal Thai Navy has a plan to provide additional funding received.

(TAF)

06 Oktober 2011

Sikorsky Blackhawk UH-60M model (S-70A) helicopter (photo : Airliners)

The cabinet has approved the Defence Ministry's proposal to buy two new Black Hawk helicopters at a cost of 2.841 billion baht, using a previously tied-over budget for 2011-2013, deputy government spokesman Anusorn Iamsa-ard said on Tuesday.

The purchase will be funded from the previously tied budget over three years.
Of the total cost, 570 million baht has already been allocated from the 2011 budget, 789 million baht will be drawn from the 2012 budget and 1.482 billion baht from the 2013 budget.

Orignially, the Defence Ministry had sought funding to buy three UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters, but the UH-60L model had gone out of production. The ministry then settled on the UH-60M model, which is more expensive.

The original budget set aside for the procurement of the three UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters was enough to buy only two UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, Mr Anusorn said.

(Bangkok Post)

17 September 2011

MRH-90 Multi Role Helicopter (photo : ADF Gallery)

A second diagnostic review of the MRH-90 Multi Role Helicopter Program will begin next week, Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare said today.

This follows a review conducted in April which recommended that Defence work with the contractor, Australian Aerospace, to implement a remediation plan.

At that time, Mr Clare said a second review would be undertaken this year to examine the effectiveness of the action taken and whether further action is necessary to remediate the project.

This review will be Chaired by DMO’s Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer Harry Dunstall and will report back by the end of October.

The first diagnostic review was ordered to address delays to the project due to a series of key issues including engine failure, transmission oil cooler fan failures and the poor availability of spares.

To date, 13 MRH-90 helicopters have been accepted by Defence and are currently being used for testing and initial crew training.

(Aus DoD)

01 September 2011

RAN Sea King helicopter (photo : Redbubble)

Australia plans to sell five Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Westland Sea King helicopters, with the aircraft to be withdrawn from service in December 2011.

The package includes five complete helicopters, three airframes, a simulator as well as equipment and parts, said minister for defence materiel Jason Clare.

"They've been the workhorse of the navy, having flown in excess of 60,000h in operations in Australia and overseas," said Clare. "The latest example of their work was the disaster relief and search and rescue missions they conducted during the Queensland floods."

A sixth Sea King, Shark 07, will not be sold. It will be preserved at the navy's Fleet Air Arm Museum in Nowra, which lies south of Sydney on Australia's eastern seaboard.

Clare said the aircraft will be marketed globally, including defence expos in the UK and Canada in September. Tender submissions will close on 1 November.

"This is a really versatile helicopter and a proven capability. The Sea Kings could be used for a range of things like fire fighting, disaster relief, search and rescue, by another navy or commercially," said Clare.

The NH Industries MRH90 transport helicopter is replacing the RAN's Sea Kings and the army's Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawks.

Australia's Sea King 50s were delivered between 1975 and 1983, as recorded in

Flightglobal's HeliCAS database.

(FlightGlobal)

22 Agustus 2011

Z-9 helicopter (photo : Weimeng)

Deals with China inked

CAMBODIA agreed to acquire Chinese-made Z-9 helicopters for US$195 million in one of 26 memorandums of understanding agreed by the two countries on Saturday.

Cooperation was pledged in sectors such as energy, mining, agriculture and road construction, as well as defence spending and aid. The two-day meeting also saw deals inked involving Cambodian conglomerate Royal Group and the Chinese backers of the controversial Boeung Kak lake development.

Led by Politburo Standing Committee member Zhou Yongkang, the Chinese delegation met with Prime Minister Hun Sen on Saturday.

“[Hun Sen and Zhou] have exchanged views on this new era of cooperation between Cambodia and China,” Eang Sophalleth, Hun Sen’s spokesman, said at a press conference following the closed-door meeting.

Hun Sen reiterated the Cambodian government’s political will to continue backing the One-China’s Policy, or China’s claim to sovereignty over Taiwan and other disputed regions, Eang Sophalleth said.

“The Chinese government needs to trust in Cambodia’s support of the One-China Policy, and Cambodia will stay resolute on this,” Eang Sophalleth quoted Hun Sen as saying during the meeting.

Increased cooperation has been lauded by Cambodian officials and some investment groups, but large-scale investments from China have also raised concerns about the mainland’s rising influence in the Kingdom.

“The more and more Chinese exercise influence in Cambodia, the more Cambodia will become subservient to China,” Lao Mong Hay, a political analyst, said yesterday.

While China’s interest in regional trade and Cambodian resources are substantial, its primary objective is strategic, Lao Mong Hay said. With disputes raging between China and Vietnamover oil-rich territory in the South China Sea, Beijing sees Cambodia as a “security belt” in the region, he said.

The deals signed at the conference covered a broad range of sectors. The heliocopter MoU, which was not discussed at the press conference, was signed by Minister of Economy and Finance Keat Chhon and China’s Vice Minister of Commerce Chen Jian.

Tycoon Lao Meng Khin signed two MoUs on mining and power plant projects with Chinese construction company Erdos Hongjun Investment Company. The two projects are worth roughly $2 billion and are set to break ground in the first quarter of next year, according to documents from China’s National Development and Reform Commission. The Chinese firm and Lao Meng Khin have previously been tied to the controversial Boeung Kak lake housing project in Phnom Penh.

Cambodian mobile operator CamGSM also signed an agreement to co-ordinate with Chinese telecommunications company Huawei in building Cambodia’s first satellite, according to notes from the meeting.

Royal Group chairman and chief executive Kith Meng told the Post yesterday the project was on track to launch in 2013 and would cost as much as $350 million.

Chinese companies have also shown interest in Cambodia’s agricultural produce, signing four agreements aimed at rice exports to the People’s Republic.

Eang Sophalleth said on Saturday Prime Minister Hun Sen had appealed to the Chinese delegation to increase its investments in the Cambodian agricultural industry.

In August last year, Hun Sen set a target of one million tonnes of milled-rice exports by 2015.

“The Chinese president and prime minister have made it an incentive to support Cambodia in all fields of national development. This delegat-ion's visit to Cambodia is a response to Cambodia's desire to boost the exportation of rice to China,” Eang Sophalleth said.

Chinese firms also signed deals on irrigation development and building roads in the Kingdom.

Experts said yesterday they supported Chinese investment in Cambodia, provided it was properly monitored.

Leopard Capital managing partner Scott Lewis said Chinese investment was a fundamental building block in Cambodia's development and should be applauded.

Development and investment by Chinese companies, however, should not come at the expense of environmental destruction and should be monitored, he said.

“These investments need to be welcomed, but they also need to be regulated,” Lewis said.

(Phnom Penh Post)

09 Agustus 2011

MH-60S of the Royal Thai Navy (photo : Sikorsky)

BALTIMORE, Maryland - Two MH-60S SEAHAWK® helicopters flew into the Port of Baltimore headed to the Royal Thai Navy, marking the first delivery of the MH-60 to an international customer.

The U.S. Navy flew the aircraft from Owego, N.Y., to the Port of Baltimore, Md., ahead of their ocean voyage to Thailand. The aircraft were acquired via the U.S. Government’s Foreign Military Sales program.

“MH-60S ‘Sierra’ helicopters have proven to be highly reliable utility aircraft for the U.S. Navy fleet,” said Michael Sears, the U.S. Navy’s international H-60 deputy program manager. “We are honored to provide Thailand with the same capability, along with pilot and maintainer training, spares and logistical support.”

The new Sierra aircraft are an integral part of the Royal Thai Navy’s fleet modernization program to augment the capabilities of six Sikorsky S-70B SEAHAWK and six marinized S-76B helicopters acquired through U.S. Foreign Military Sales in the late 1990s. The Navy has expressed interest in additional MH-60S purchases.

The MH-60S helicopters 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.

MH-60S and MH-60R SEAHAWK multi-mission helicopters are designed and manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX). Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) provides the digital cockpit for both MH-60 helicopter types, and is the systems integrator for the MH-60R platform.

(Sikorsky)

27 Juli 2011

The army's proposal to buy more than 30 new helicopters (photo : wn)

The Pheu Thai-led coalition government is willing to support the plan to buy more than 30 new helicopters of the army, prime minister-designate Yingluck Shinwatra said on Wednesday.

Ms Yingluck said the new administration will have to consider details of the plan because weapons purchasing must be made in line with the set priority and the need of the army in order to gain maximum benefit from budget spending.

“My government is willing to do anything it can to support the army,” she said.

She added that the new defence minister will have to discuss the plan with the army and then forward it to the cabinet meeting for consideration.

Ms Yingluck rejected as baseless the reports that Pheu Thai had approached the current Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, inviting him to continue serving the ministerial position.

Meanwhile, army chief Prayuth Chan-ocha denied he had taken the opportunity from the crashes of three army helicopters to asked for the new chopper fleet as criticised.

Gen Prayuth insisted that the new helicopters purchasing programme has been planned for a long time as the army needs to have modern aircraft and weapons for protecting the country.

The army chief refused to give comments about reports that Gen Yuthasak Sasiprapa would be made the new defence minister.

“The army is ready to comply with order of superior officer without sticking to any particular individuals. The new government should also take a good care of the army,” he said.

(Bangkok Post)

25 Juli 2011

Bell 212 of the RTA (photo : Trevor Bartlett)

The remaining 20 Bell 212 helicopters of the army have been ordered grounded for a major examination of their conditions.

Maj-Gen Pitthaya Krachangwong, commander of the Army Aviation Centre, said use of the remaining 20 Bell 212 helicopters still in commission has been temporary suspended for checks of engines and other parts.

Two Bell 212 helicopters crashed on July 16 and today, one inside the Kaeng Krachan National Park in a poor weather conditition and the other today near the national park area following an engine trouble.

The aviation centre will organise activities and religious rites to boost the morale of its staff, Maj-Gen Pitthaya said.

(Bangkok Post)