APACHE RESTRICTIONS
Israel has imposed operating restrictions on its Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopters, after a joint investigation into a fatal accident in July 2006 concluded that a pin attaching the aircraft's main rotor broke. A Boeing source says the crash could have been linked to Israel's use of a wider flight envelope for its Apaches than the US Army, and the parties are now discussing technical solutions. A senior air force source reveals that Israel will delay a decision on a follow-on order for up to eight more AH-64Ds until the flight restrictions have been removed.
ITALIAN UPGRADE
Alenia Aeronautica is to upgrade 14 Italian air force Alenia Aermacchi MB-339CDs to the CD2 standard, before the service changes the fleet's mission from intercepting slow-moving targets to pilot training. To be replaced by the Eurofighter Typhoon, the aircraft will eventually join 14 MB-339CD2s in use at Lecce-Galatina air base. The €41.2 million ($58.3 million) upgrade will take two years to complete.
DUTCH GO
The Royal Netherlands Air Force handed over maritime patrol responsibility for the Dutch Antilles to Provincial Airlines on 15 October, with the Canadian operator to fly two modified de Havilland Dash 8s under a 10-year deal worth €150 million ($212 million). Replacing two Fokker 60s now in storage at Eindhoven air base awaiting a possible buyer, the aircraft will operate with tactical coordinators and sensor operators from the Dutch navy.
NIGHT HUNTERS
Rosvertol will supply several more Mil Mi-28N Night Hunter attack helicopters to the Russian armed forces in the near future to support state acceptance trials of the type scheduled to end early next year. Currently involving five aircraft and to conclude by year-end, the first stage of joint acceptance trials includes armament and avionics testing. Moscow has so far ordered 67 Mi-28Ns for delivery by 2016.
Source: Flight International
