MD Helicopters is launching a second generation armed "Combat Explorer" study aimed at attack requirements in several Latin American countries including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Venezuela.
The initiative was prompted by trials of a missile-equipped MD530F with the Chilean armed forces, and the success of weapon systems integration on the Explorer for the Mexican navy.
The navy operates six Explorers in an anti-drug role, with orders for up to an additional nine expected to follow. The initial armed version is cleared to carry machine guns and unguided rockets, but the "second generation" study is aimed at a multi-role variant armed with anti-tank missiles.
"We are in conversation with Lockheed Martin [over theAGM-114 Hellfire and Rafael NT-D Spike anti-tank missiles] to see what modifications we need to make and how they can be integrated," says Latin American sales manager George Perez. The company expects an 18- to 24-month development time, leading to a proof-of-concept demonstrator at the end of the initial phase. "We will start engineering work this month," says marketing and sales vice president Colin Whicher. The target price for the system is around $6 million, a fraction of the cost of a dedicated attack helicopter. "We don't have the same overheads, that's why we can do it so cheaply," he adds.
"With the first generation of Combat Explorer we have a platform from which we can offer a way to take the first step towards an attack helicopter," says Perez.
The second generation version would be fitted with NATO-standard hardpoints, infrared sensors, a more sophisticated weapons aiming sight, target acquisition and detection software and a laser rangefinder.
MD Helicopters recently cleared the Explorer to carry the General Dynamics GAU-19/A 0.50in-calibre Gatling gun, the M2 0.50in-calibre gun pod and the 70mm Hydra rockets during six days of testing at Fort Bliss, Texas (Flight International, 20-26 February).
Source: Flight International