Bell says it remains confident of concluding a deal with Turkey for 50 AH-1Z Zulu Cobra attack helicopters, despite the Turkish defence procurement agency SSM inviting competitors Kamov and Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) to submit a rival bid.
The Kamov/IAI team has been asked to provide further details on the Ka-50-2, a version of the single-seat Ka-50 with a tandem two-seat cockpit and Israeli integrated electronics.
A complete change of direction is unlikely though, with IAI and Kamov already having been asked back to the negotiating table once, in September 2002.
Bell has made its best and final offer in the negotiations for the programme. "We have completed all of the specifications and licensing agreements with TAI (the prime contractor) and this has been briefed to SSM.
"The process is moving forward as planned and we hope to have a decision by the end of the year. The contract is valued at $2 billion for 50 aircraft which includes logistics and industrialisation.
"While there are the normal political considerations involved with any international programme, we believe this programme will be allowed to proceed."
The Turkish government plans to buy a total of 145 attack helicopters, but the initial 50-unit purchase is the only firm order to date.
Source: Flight Daily News
