Kaman and GKN Westland are once again facing off in South-East Asia, this time in Indonesia, to contest a requirement for a shipborne anti-submarine helicopter.
Westland is plugging its Super Lynx 300 to meet an anticipated helicopter requirement for the Indonesian navy's six Ahmad Yani frigates, while Kaman is offering its SH-2G Super Seasprite. The navy now operates ageing Westland Wasps in the anti-submarine warfare role. Kaman is hoping, however, to build on recent wins in Australia and New Zealand.
An order will have to wait until Indonesia's economy and currency recover from their recent slide, but Westland believes that could take place within two years.
Sources close to the programme say they believe that Indonesia is now only keeping two of its eight Wasps in service, and may hardly even be using these, as the country's helicopter fleet has needed no support from the manufacturer during the last three years.
Kaman says it is pushing its SH-2G, but believes the frigates would need hangar modifications to accommodate the larger helicopter.
Westland remains in contract negotiations to supply six Super Lynx 300s to Malaysia for Yarrow-built LEKIU class light frigates, although this may be trimmed to an initial three because of budget restrictions.
Both manufacturers continue to push for an anticipated Malaysian order for up to 27 off-shore patrol vessels. Kaman says this could build up to at least 30 aircraft.
Source: Flight International