Kuwait has become the main target for GEC-Marconi Avionics in its bid to secure export orders for its Helicopter Integrated Defensive Aids System (HIDAS) following a contract from the British Army to fit the equipment on its Boeing WAH-64 Apache attack helicopter.
The UK Ministry of Defence signed the £50 million contract earlier this month for the initial phase of HIDAS procurement and integration, giving the firm a platform to pursue exports. The system is applicable to other helicopters, as well as the Apache.
Kuwait is attempting to get approval from the USA for the procurement of 16 of the latest-standard AH-64D Longbow Apaches, and the UK company is optimistic that the Gulf state will not specify the less-capable existing defensive-aids equipment supplied by a US contractor should the deal go through. The AH-64D - minus the Longbow radar, which has only been cleared for export to the UK - was displayed at the show.
Source: Flight International
