Paul Derby
GKN Westland executives at the show say they are determined to build on the success of the Lynx naval helicopter as the latest variant, the Super Lynx, makes an appearance here courtesy of the British Royal Navy.
A Mk3 Lynx from the British Type 42 destroyer HMS Nottingham is on display in the static park.
Westland will hope to woo potential new buyers in the wake of recent announcements by Germany and Denmark of their intentions to upgrade their existing Lynx fleets to Super Lynx standard.
The company points to its investment in significant upgrades to the engine, cockpit and avionics of the Lynx as an indication of its commitment to the aircraft.
Lynx programme director John Falconer says: "The experience gained from more than 20 years of operation makes Super Lynx the aircraft of choice for operators wanting the advantages of a proven helicopter with an established performance.
Capability
"It continues to offer a first-class capability for operations in temperate climates.
"Some operators are looking to fly at close to maximum all-up weight in higher temp-eratures."
He adds that the company's investments are designed to position the Lynx for the 21st century.
The new Super Lynx Series 200 will be powered by the LHTEC CTS800-4N as an alternative to the Rolls-Royce Gem 42-1 engine currently in use.
The 300 Series offers a full glass cockpit with six LCD colour flat panel displays and digital core avionics.
Westland say the development benefited from its experience with the cockpits of the Royal Navy EH101 Merlin and the Lynx Mk8.
Source: Flight Daily News