UK axes elderly RAF helicopters and Watchkeeper UAVs to cut costs
The UK has confirmed the early retirement of 17 Puma HC2 helicopters, 14 of its older Boeing CH-47 Chinooks and the Watchkeeper uncrewed air vehicle (UAV) in a bid to slash costs.
Germany takes delivery of first H145M LKH
Germany has received the first of up to 82 H145Ms for operation by its armed forces.
Bahrain still considering Cobra fleet renewal deal with surplus Bell AH-1Ws
Bahrain’s military fleet renewal could be set to advance further, with a potential acquisition of ex-US Marine Corps (USMC) Bell AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters still in the mix.
RBAF shows off new Bell 505 training helicopter
One of the Royal Bahraini Air Force’s (RBAF’s) new Bell 505 training helicopters is making the type’s debut appearance at the show, within the static display.
Bahrain’s strengthened air force stars at home show
Manama’s strengthened military capability is proudly on display at the Bahrain air show, with its air force’s newest and most capable-ever combat aircraft to take a starring role.
Bell focused on future upgrades as FLRAA advances toward delivery of first prototype
The rotorcraft manufacturer says its Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) tiltrotor will be the first major Pentagon procurement programme to incorporate features designed to reduce the cost and time needed to incorporate potential new capabilities.
Leonardo takes tilt at NATO next-generation rotorcraft concept
Leonardo Helicopters’ concept design study for NATO’s future rotorcraft programme is likely to combine elements from the company’s two in-development tiltrotors, according to the airframer’s chief engineer.
HeliOperations secures new German navy pilot training contract
UK-based HeliOperations has been awarded a £141 million ($181 million), seven-year contract to provide training for German naval helicopter pilots.
Netherlands signs contract for 12 H225M Caracals
The Netherlands has signed a production order for 12 Airbus Helicopters H225M rotorcraft: two fewer than it had originally planned to acquire for its special forces-support requirement.
SkyAlyne signs for 19 H135s under Canada’s FAcT contract
Airbus Helicopters has been contracted by joint venture SkyAlyne to provide 19 H135 trainers to the Royal Canadian Air Force as part of Ottawa’s Future Aircrew Training programme.