PZL Mielec plans to demonstrate a fully equipped M28 Bryza B1R-bismaritime patrol aircraft to the Polish navy in June. The Polish company is integrating a range of systems, having completed the first flight of the twin-turboprop aircraft fitted with a retractable undercarriage earlier this year.
The aircraft will be equipped with a new ARS-800 radar, which incorporates an IFF interrogator, a forward looking infrared (FLIR) sensor, a magnetometer and acoustics system.
Flight tests of the retractable undercarriage started earlier this year, with the trials expected to be extended to cover the new additional equipment shortly. Initial tests proved the novel undercarriage arrangement and showed slightly improved performances, particularly endurance.
Mielec is developing additional modifications, including an in-flight refuelling system, with the probe most likely to be mounted above the cockpit. A 750 litre (200USgal) fuel tank will be made available as an option. It will mounted conformally on the upper fuselage.
The Polish company is also working on a search-and-rescue version of the Bryza/Skytruck equipped with the ARS-400 and FLIR. The aircraft will be able to drop rescue rafts through doors on the fuselage side. A version of the transport version equipped with four stretchers and room for medical personnel is being evaluated.
Mielec also plans to study armed Bryza/Skytrucks. Polish naval aviation will need additional anti-submarine warfare capabilities, with at least the MU-90 torpedo being integrated.
Source: Flight International