Sales of EADS Defence and Security Systems' AN/AAR-60 MILDS missile warner have exceeded 4,700 units, on the back of a new 160-strong, €10 million ($12.8 million) order from Australia's Defence Materiel Organisation.
The company's order base remains dominated by installations on Eurocopter Tiger and NH Industries NH90 helicopters, but Turkey remains the largest single customer with 1,447 units on order for its rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft fleets.
The system has also been integrated with a number of Mil Mi-17 helicopters used by a Western air force for special forces duties, says EADS.
Signed in late April, the Australian order comprises 116 sensors, with four to be fitted to each of six Boeing CH-47D Chinook transports and 23 Sikorsky S-70A-9 Black Hawk utility helicopters. The equipment will be integrated into the aircraft's electronic warfare self-protection suite by BAE Systems Australia.
The remaining 44 sensors are MILDS-HeSA versions to be carried by the Royal Australian Air Force's 18 Lockheed Martin AP-3C maritime patrols. The equipment will be used on a pool basis, with up to seven aircraft to carry five sensors at any one time. The warner will be linked to existing chaff and flare dispensers, with aircraft modifications to be conducted by Tenix Defence Systems.
A further 107 MILDS units are being delivered to equip the Australian army's Tiger armed reconnaissance helicopters. Another order is expected for the service's 12 MRH90 trooplift helicopters.
EADS says New Zealand is also examining a purchase as part of its planned acquisition of army NH90s, with its air force also considering an order for its P-3K maritime patrols.
PETER LA FRANCHI/ULM
Source: Flight International
