New Zealand has launched a second competition for Bell Sioux replacements and plans to introduce a new fleet of training helicopters before it fields the NH Industries NH90. Chief of Air Force Air Vice Marshal John Hamilton says an invitation to register has been issued to manufacturers interested in supplying aircraft that can perform training and light utility missions, with up to five trainers to be acquired and leasing options to be considered.
Released late last month, the request is expected to provide information on the AgustaWestland A109/A119, Bell 407 and Eurocopter EC130/EC135. Information is sought by the end of July for the provision of four to eight helicopters with a range of 145km (80nm) with a 50km reserve. Hamilton says the quantity to be purchased will not be determined until New Zealand finishes negotiating the purchase of between eight and 12 NH90s to replace its 14 remaining Bell UH-1 Iroquois.
This deal will also be contingent on the remaining funds available in the air force’s modernisation budget, which must also pay for the upgrade of its Lockheed Martin C-130s and P-3 Orions. New Zealand had aimed to replace its UH-1s from 2007, but “we know that’s too ambitious given NHI’s production rate”, says Hamilton. “We’re looking at 2009 or 2010.”
The aircraft could be acquired with a configuration similar to Australia’s 12 MRH90s and possibly be assembled by Australian Aerospace, he says.
Source: Flight International
