RYZSARD JAXA-MALAKOWSKI / WARSAW
PZL Swidnik has started series production of the SW-4 five-seat light helicopter. The first of an initial batch of five will be flown next year.
Initial SW-4s will be delivered to the Polish air force's Debin aviation academy, where the twin Rolls-Royce 250-powered machines will replace elderly Mil Mi-2 Hoplites in the basic training role.
The Polish air force plans to acquire 47 SW-4s by 2010, while the army's airmobile units are keen to procure 24, although they are not funded in the budget plan that runs to 2006. Swidnik is negotiating other SW-4 sales, but declines to name potential customers.
Only one of the larger W-3 Sokol has been delivered to the Polish forces this year. Next year looks more promising, but budget problems mean Polish defence orders are not meeting operational needs.
Swidnik is hopeful it will receive work to upgrade 12 Sokols in air force service in the training role and convert them for search-and-rescue duties. The modernisation will include Rockwell Collins ARC-210 transreceivers and cockpits compatible with night vision goggles.
The company is also developing its subcontractor business, and has received a 10-year, $66 million deal from GKNAerospace for composite engine nacelles.
Source: Flight International
