Norway could decide within the next few days whether to kickstart a fresh competition to meet its search-and-rescue helicopter needs as it mulls over a move to firm up options it has on the NH Industries NH90.
Oslo ordered 14 anti-submarine warfare machines and took 10 options in September 2001 when, along with Finland, it selected the NH90. The two countries were part of the Nordic Standard Helicopter Programme (NSHP) which also involved Denmark and Sweden. NSHP fell apart when Denmark broke ranks and ordered the EH101.
Justice
The commonality plans look set for further dilution as the Norwegian ministry of justice and police questions the suitability of the NH90 for the long range SAR missions it needs to fulfil.
The ministry issued a request for information earlier this year, with the candidates being the NH90, the EH101 and Sikorsky's S-92. All three are expected to be retained for the next stage of the competition.
Norway, which currently operates Westland Sea Kings in the SAR role, may still opt for conversion of the NH90 options into firm orders. The options expire at the end of 2004.
Source: Flight Daily News
