Internationale Helicopter ontwikkelingen

[Sparkplug]

Beetje rare foto, alle heli's missen wat mij betreft de longbouw radar of zijn deze in een ver:6 ook veel kleiner geworden?

Ze vliegen zonder de Longbow radar 

[Umbert]

US Army introduces Version 6 Apache helo

28 JANUARY 2021

by Gareth Jennings

The US Army has begun inducting the latest Version 6 (V6) standard of the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter, with the first examples delivered to operational units in early 2021.

The service announced on 26 January that the 1-229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington became the first operational unit to receive the V6 Apache helicopter following deliveries direct from Boeing's Mesa production facility in Arizona. Imagery released by the army showed at least seven helicopters to have made the journey.

This latest V6 configuration comprises a Modernized Day Sensor Assembly (MDSA), which greatly extends stand-off and is a game-changer against a complex and hybrid threat, an improved cognitive decision aiding system (CDAS), software upgrades, and an upgraded mission processor. It also includes a new maritime targeting mode, as well as aided target detection/classification; multimode laser image blending; a radar frequency interferometer (RFI); passive ranging/range extension; fire-control radar enhancements; Longbow integrated maintenance support system ground analysis software improvement; an interactive electronic technical manual upgrade; and Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW)-embedded diagnostics. Boeing has previously told Janes that Version 6 also increases the range of the mast mounted fire-control radar from 8 to 16 km.

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A group of AH-64E version 6 Apache helicopters depart the Boeing manufacturing facilities at Mesa, Arizona, on 13 January bound for Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington. The aircraft were delivered to the 1-229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion. (Boeing)

https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/us-army-introduces-version-6-apache-helo

Beetje rare foto, alle heli's missen wat mij betreft de longbouw radar of zijn deze in een ver:6 ook veel kleiner geworden?

[Sparkplug]

US Army introduces Version 6 Apache helo

28 JANUARY 2021

by Gareth Jennings

The US Army has begun inducting the latest Version 6 (V6) standard of the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter, with the first examples delivered to operational units in early 2021.

The service announced on 26 January that the 1-229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington became the first operational unit to receive the V6 Apache helicopter following deliveries direct from Boeing's Mesa production facility in Arizona. Imagery released by the army showed at least seven helicopters to have made the journey.

This latest V6 configuration comprises a Modernized Day Sensor Assembly (MDSA), which greatly extends stand-off and is a game-changer against a complex and hybrid threat, an improved cognitive decision aiding system (CDAS), software upgrades, and an upgraded mission processor. It also includes a new maritime targeting mode, as well as aided target detection/classification; multimode laser image blending; a radar frequency interferometer (RFI); passive ranging/range extension; fire-control radar enhancements; Longbow integrated maintenance support system ground analysis software improvement; an interactive electronic technical manual upgrade; and Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW)-embedded diagnostics. Boeing has previously told Janes that Version 6 also increases the range of the mast mounted fire-control radar from 8 to 16 km.

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A group of AH-64E version 6 Apache helicopters depart the Boeing manufacturing facilities at Mesa, Arizona, on 13 January bound for Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington. The aircraft were delivered to the 1-229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion. (Boeing)

https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/us-army-introduces-version-6-apache-helo

[Sparkplug]

Sikorsky-Boeing unveils Defiant X offering for US Army's FLRAA

26 JANUARY 2021

by Pat Host

Sikorsky-Boeing unveiled its Defiant X rigid co-axial rotorcraft offering for the US Army's Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) effort that features a few design changes from the SB>1 Defiant technology demonstrator on 25 January.

The Defiant X is Sikorsky-Boeing's complete weapon system configuration for the FLRAA competition. It builds on handling qualities and capabilities developed by the SB>1 Defiant, which was built for the US Army's Joint Multi-Role Technology Demonstrator (JMR-TD) programme.

Jay Macklin, Sikorsky Future Vertical Lift (FVL) business development director, told Janes on 22 January that Sikorsky-Boeing made enhancements to the Defiant X design to reduce its thermal signature, including changes to the exhaust system. The team's enhancements also improve the aircraft's aerodynamic handling.

The Defiant X has a V-shaped vertical stabiliser design, which is different from the flying wing-style vertical stabiliser found on the SB>1 Defiant. Sikorsky-Boeing declined to provide further details about modifications it made for the Defiant X, citing competition sensitivities.

The team installed a tricycle landing gear on the Defiant X. Heather McBryan, Boeing FVL sales and marketing director, told Janes on 22 January that this will improve stability, landing, and taxiing in combat and austere environments. Sikorsky-Boeing also developed an integrated mission system package, which Macklin said will enable Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO) capability. Additionally, a modular open systems architecture will allow upgrades to maintain the aircraft's relevance on the 2035 battlefield.

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Artist's illustration of Sikorsky-Boeing's Defiant X rigid co-axial rotorcraft the team is offering for the US Army's FLRAA programme. The V-shaped vertical stabiliser design is a modification of the SB>1 Defiant technology demonstrator design. (Sikorsky-Boeing)

https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/sikorsky-boeing-unveils-defiant-x-offering-for-us-armys-flraa

[Harald]

UK rules out FLRAA as Puma helicopter successor

A difference in timeline between the out of service date for RAF Puma HC2 helicopters and the introduction of the US Army's Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) has led the UK to assessing alternative options to renew medium-lift rotary capabilities.

https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/defence-helicopter/premium-uk-rules-out-flraa-puma-helicopter-success/

[Sparkplug]

Airbus pitches H175 as potential Puma replacement for UK

21 JANUARY 2021

by Gareth Jennings

Airbus is pitching its H175 as a potential replacement for the United Kingdom's fleet of Royal Air Force (RAF) Westland-Aerospatiale SA 330E Puma HC2 medium-lift helicopters in the 2025 timeframe.

Speaking at the virtual Royal Aeronautical Society Next-Generation Rotorcraft Conference, Jerome Combe, Portfolio Policy & Strategy at Airbus Helicopters France, said that while the company's NH90 and H225M platforms would suit the capabilities required of any UK Puma replacement effort, the H175 would also provide industrial opportunities for the country.

"We know that in the UK there are questions about a Puma replacement," Combe said on 21 January. "There are two ways to look at it – either the UK will push for a capability requirement, and I think that both the [NH90 and H225M] would be the perfect ones [in that case], or if the UK had in mind the national cost [benefits] I think that [the H175] could really offer a huge opportunity for UK content in the design of the [military variant of the] platform, [which it could] also export. So, I think it is good to have it in mind that the H175 could play a role."

The RAF currently fields 23 Puma helicopters that were upgraded to the HC2 standard in the mid-2010s. With the airframes themselves dating back to the early 1970s, these helicopters are slated for retirement in 2025 with no replacement planned.

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Airbus is pitching its H175 as a potential Puma HC2 replacement for the UK in the 2025 timeframe, noting industrial benefits for the country in developing a military variant of the helicopter. (Airbus Helicopters)

https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/airbus-pitches-h175-as-potential-puma-replacement-for-uk

[Parera]

Via twitter @BoeingAustralia


Ideetje voor de KLU om de nieuwe Apache's ook van een (tijdelijke) camo te voorzien?

[Sparkplug]

Update: Australia selects AH-64E Apache Guardian to replace Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters

18 JANUARY 2021

by Julian Kerr

Canberra has selected the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter to replace the Australian Army's fleet of 22 Airbus Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters (ARHs), Australian Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said on 15 January.

The first of 29 Apaches equipped with improved sensors, communications suites, attack capabilities, and improved survivability is expected to be delivered in 2025, said the minister.

While formal approval by the US State Department for the acquisition has yet to be announced by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the cost of the 29 Apaches together with spares, sensors, communications, training, and facilities is expected to be around AUD4 billion (USD3.1 billion), sources said.

The Australian Department of Defence (DoD) had considered a number of helicopters against key criteria of proven ability, maturity, and an off-the-shelf operating system, Reynolds said.

Lessons learnt from issues with the Tiger ARH and other rotary-wing projects had informed the strategy to seek a proven, mature replacement capability. "The Apache Guardian is the most lethal, most survivable, and lowest risk option meeting all of Defence's capability, through-life support, security, and certification requirements," said Reynolds.

"By pursuing a proven and low-risk system offered by the Apache, Defence will avoid the ongoing cost and schedule risk typically associated with developmental platforms," she added.

The Tiger ARH first entered Australian service in December 2004. It has suffered performance and availability issues but is now delivering on its promised capabilities, which includes operating from the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN's) two Canberra-class landing helicopter dock (LHD) vessels.

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Canberra announced on 15 January that it selected the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian (seen here in Taiwanese service) attack helicopter to replace the Australian Army's fleet of 22 Airbus Tiger ARHs. (Republic of China Army )

https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/update-australia-selects-ah-64e-apache-guardian-to-replace-tiger-armed-reconnaissance-helicopters

[Sparkplug]

First AW169 In New Advanced Light Utility Helicopter Configuration Begins Flight Testing

https://theaviationist.com/2020/12/31/first-aw169-in-new-advanced-light-utility-helicopter-configuration-begins-flight-testing/


The first AW1 Light Utility Helicopter photographed in flight. (Photo: Oscar Bernardi)


The training version of the AW169 LUH, designated UH-169B, delivered to the Italian Army earlier this year. (Photo: Leonardo)

[Sparkplug]

MH-60R helicopter selected for South Korean navy's MOH Batch II programme

16 DECEMBER 2020

by Gabriel Dominguez

South Korea's Defense Project Promotion Committee has selected the Lockheed Martin MH-60R Seahawk multirole naval helicopter to meet the Republic of Korea Navy's (RoKN's) requirement for 12 additional anti-surface- and anti-submarine-warfare-capable rotorcraft.

The country's Defense Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) announced on 15 December that the twin-turboshaft helicopter, which was chosen over the Leonardo AW159 Wildcat, is to be acquired under a contract that is expected to be signed before the end of 2020 under the RoKN's Maritime Operation Helicopter Batch II (MOH Batch II) programme.

A total of KRW960 billion (USD881.4 million) has been earmarked for the project, which is slated for completion in 2025 and aimed at improving the long-distance surface and underwater detection and attack capabilities of naval vessels, according to DAPA.

Under the MOH Batch I programme, Leonardo supplied eight AW159 Wildcat helicopters to the RoKN in 2016. The platform was selected at the time over the MH-60R after Leonardo reportedly lowered the final price of its AW159 package.

Meanwhile, the committee also approved on 15 December upgrades for the anti-jamming GPS, identification friend-or-foe, and Link 16 tatical datalink systems on the Republic of Korea Air Force's F-15K multirole fighter aircraft. About KRW300 billion has been earmarked for the project, which is mainly aimed at improving communications with US forces during joint missions and exercises. A contract with Boeing is expected to be signed in the near future.

DAPA also announced that the committee decided to discontinue a project to upgrade the Republic of Korea Army's CH/HH-47D helicopters after considering various aspects related to schedule, performance, and cost.

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The Lockheed Martin MH-60R Seahawk (seen here in US Navy service) has been selected to meet the RoKN's requirement for 12 additional anti-surface- and anti-submarine-warfare-capable helicopters. (US Navy)

https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/mh-60r-helicopter-selected-for-south-korean-navys-moh-batch-ii-programme

[Harald]

Bell Textron eyes deal for S. Korea's attack helicopter

Bell Textron Inc., a U.S. aerospace manufacturer, announced its bid to sell attack helicopters to South Korea on Wednesday as the country's Marine Corps plans to launch an aviation wing next year.

Bell Textron said its AH-1Z Viper with anti-armor and air-to-air missile capabilities can engage in and defeat "the broadest array of threats" in "any environment on land or sea."

"Bell has had a long relationship with the Korean industry as a supplier of critical aircraft components," Vince Tobin, the Executive Vice President of Military Business at Bell, said during a virtual press conference.

"Today, with the new AH-1Z, Bell hopes to extend its relationship with Korea into the next generation," he added.

South Korea is currently mulling over whether to develop an armed version of the country's mobile helicopter or to buy attack choppers from abroad.

In October, Marine Corps commandant Lt. Gen. Lee Seung-do said they want aircraft that are currently used for attack purposes, not an armed version of a MUH-1 Marineon, the Marine variant of South Korea's KUH-1 Surion helicopter.

Ret. Lt. Gen. George Trautman, a former deputy commandant for aviation at U.S. Marine Corps, said South Korea's deployment of Viper will improve efficiency in the two countries' combined operations based on the aircraft's interoperability.

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20201209007800325

The U.S. Marine Corps has agreed to buy 189 Viper aircraft with production to continue through 2022, Bell Textron said.

[Harald]

Bell's V-280 has Reach   ( Bell heeft wel een mooie combi met de V-280 en de 360 Invictus )

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2as3c77lTO8&feature=emb_logo

[Sparkplug]

First Indian Navy MH-60R Seahawk

PUBLISHED: 06 DECEMBER 2020   LAST UPDATED: 06 DECEMBER 2020    HITS: 777

Early December 2020, the first MH-60R Seahawk for the Indian Navy, serial IN751, was shown to the public by Sikorsky.

India fast tracked the acquisition of the Seahawk helicopters. In November 2018, a Letter of Request (LoR) was issued to the US goverment for the acquisition of 24 MH-60R anti-submarine helicopters. On 2 April 2019 the US State Department made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to India of the MH-60R.

It is reported that three MH-60Rs will be diverted from the US Navy production line, but this has not been confirmed yet.

The Seahawks would replenish India's ageing fleet of British-made Sea King helicopters operating since the 1980s. The Sea King Mk42Bs are flying with INAS 330 'Harpoons' at Mumbai (INS Shikra) and INAS 336 'Flaming Arrows' at Cochin (INS Garuda). Next to that the Indian Navy is also using the Sea King Mk42C in the assault role with the Marine Commando Flight at INS Shikra and in the utility role at Vishakhapatnam (UH-3H).

The total valua of the FMS is USD 2.6 billion, including support equipment and ammunition, such as Hellfire missiles, advanced precision kill weapons system rockets and MK54 torpedoes. Also part of the sale is general support, technical as well as logistics, personnel training and training equipment.

The delivery schedule has not been made public.

Photo: Sikorksy



https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/first-indian-navy-mh-60r-seahawk

[Harald]

Search And Rescue: First HH139B Helicopter Delivered to Italian Air Force's 15th Wing

The "B" version of the HH-139 helicopter features an increased payload, a more powerful rescue winch and an improved sensor suite, as well as a mission console to better manage the mission. The Italian Air Force has ordered 17 "B" versions.


On November 30, the first HH139B helicopter landed in Cervia, intended to complete and strengthen the helicopter fleet of the 15th Wing and its subordinate SAR Centers and Groups.

The helicopter was handed over on November 27 at the Leonardo plant in Vergiate (VA), following the successful conclusion of the testing and acceptance procedures conducted by the personnel of the Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness Department (DAAA), together with the men of the employee of the Territorial Technical Office of Milan (UTT) and the support of the Experimental Flight Department of the Air Force.

The delivery of the helicopters will be completed in 2021, with the delivery of 17 "B" version helicopters to the Flying Groups of Cervia and the Search and Rescue centers located on the national territory (80th C/SAR Center at Decimomannu; 82nd C/SAR Center at Trapani; 84th C / SAR Center of Gioia del Colle and 85th C/SAR Center of Pratica di Mare.

The new HH-139B version has some technical features that improve its operational capabilities, and therefore increase its flexibility in responding to emergencies and security needs.

In particular, the new version has been equipped with a double winch that increases the reliability of the system and safety during recovery operations and a "mission console" that allows better management of the on-board equipment for the purpose of searching for any missing persons.

In addition, the maximum take-off weight has been increased, from 6800kg to 7000kg, which allows a greater load capacity and finally it has been updated with the latest-generation avionics and on-board sensors (such as the AIS system - Automatic Identification System - which allows better interaction with vessels, and the OPLS - Obstacle Proximity LIDAR System - which favors identification and separation with elevated obstacles.

The 15 ° Stormo has the task of recovering crews in difficulty in peacetime (SAR - Search and rescue) and in times of crisis and in operations outside national borders (C / SAR - Combat SAR), to support special forces operations as well as to contribute in the event of serious disasters to activities of public utility such as the search for missing persons at sea or in the mountains, the emergency medical transport of patients in danger of life and the rescue of seriously injured persons, transport in bio-containment and, recently, also support for forest fire fighting activities.

The training level of the crews, the technological characteristics of the helicopters supplied as well as the use of special equipment and techniques, such as the use of night vision goggles, often make the 15 ° Stormo the only helicopter component capable of successfully managing situations more complex emergencies thanks, for example, to the ability to use during the day, at night and in marginal weather conditions.

Whenever a helicopter of the 15th Wing takes off it is either saving a human life, or training to do so. In fact, since its establishment until today, the crews of the 15th Wing have saved over 7200 people in life-threatening circumstances.

https://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/214604/italian-air-force-takes-delivery-of-first-hh_139b-combat-sar-helicopter.html

[Sparkplug]

Apache AH-64E heralds new era in modern British military aviation

26 November 2020 21:05

The first two new Apache Attack Helicopters (AH-64E variant) have been delivered to the British Army from the US Government. They arrived at Wattisham Flying Station on 26 Nov 20 with Aviation Technicians from 7 Aviation Support Battalion, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (7 Avn Spt Bn REME), who will maintain and service the new aircraft.

A fleet of AH-64E Version 6 aircraft, the most advanced variant of Apache, have been procured from the United States to replace the Apache AH Mark 1, which reaches its Out of Service Date in 2024.

These Boeing built new aircraft will enable the UK to maintain its battle-winning Attack Helicopter capability for decades to come thanks to its improved digital capability. The new aircraft is already in service with the US Army and other defence forces and has been designed and equipped to offer common configuration.

First UK flying is anticipated to commence in July 2021.  Initially, this will be focussed on trials activity and then on developing instructional techniques to safely manage aircrew transition from Mark 1 to E-model.  The focus will then change to the full rate conversion training of 3 Regiment Army Air Corps (3AAC).

Prior to commencement of flying, the full Air System Safety Case will be rigorously tested to ensure it can support safe flying. This will include Quality Assurance and airworthiness tasks by 7 Bn, plus certification by the UK Military Aviation Authority, assurance of aircraft documentation, simulators, training and instructors.

AH-64E will deliver a significant enhancement to the UK's 1st Aviation Brigade

New engines, drivetrain, main rotor blades and avionics will deliver a significant boost in aircraft performance.  Embedded system-level diagnostics will increase aircraft availability.  Extended range Fire Control Radar with maritime mode will ensure the aircraft can operate in the maritime environment. Link 16, Mode 5 Identification Friend or Foe and, in time, Manned-Unmanned Teaming bring theatre entry-standard equipment fits and vastly increase crew battle-space awareness.

Brigadier Steve Hussey, Head of Capability Air Manoeuvre, said: "While there is still some way to go before the Army's modernised Attack Helicopter capability reaches full operational status, the arrival of the first Apache E Model in the UK is a major programme milestone that has been achieved despite the impact of COVID-19."

Artificer Sergeant Major Brian Slinn, 7 Avn Spt Bn REME, said: "Bringing a new aircraft into service, especially one as impressive as the AH-64E is an exciting prospect that doesn't happen every day. The REME personnel from 7 Bn and 3 Regt AAC understandably are chomping at the bit to finally get the process under way."

Brigadier Paul Tedman CBE, Commander 1 Aviation Brigade, said: "I'm delighted to see the first AH-64E arrive in the UK; it's a significant waypoint on our journey to a modernised Apache capability.  As the Aviation Brigade grows towards its own Full Operating Capability in 2023, AH-64E will team with Wildcat and provide the backbone of its capability.  The next few years represent hugely exciting times for the Joint Helicopter Command and the Brigade."

The UK has strived to make the aircraft best value for money by utilising a large amount of parts from the Apache Mark 1, which reduces production costs and aims to be more environmentally sustainable. Plus, the new aircraft will be easier to maintain and more reliable, so that it will be more straightforward to sustain in any operational environment.

Maj Gen Jez Bennett, Director Capability, said: "The arrival of the first Apache E Model Attack Helicopter to be delivered to the British Army over the next two years marks the beginning of a significant uplift in capability to enhance the Army's contribution across the spectrum of military operations.

"From supporting hostage rescue missions, to countering an adversaries' anti-access, area denial platforms, the Apache E outstrips the outgoing Mark 1 aircraft by increased platform digitalisation, improved weapons and avionics, and the ability to use the latest and future technology to enable teaming with semi-autonomous systems such as UASs."

Air Commodore Owen Barnes, DE&S Boeing helicopters portfolio manager, said: "DE&S is delighted to have brought the Apache Capability Sustainment Programme to this significant milestone. It represents the continued dedication and hard work of the team, in close collaboration with our Army customer, to deliver the best capability to our armed forces."











https://www.army.mod.uk/news-and-events/news/2020/11/apache-ah-64e-heralds-new-era-in-modern-british-military-aviation/