Paul Lewis/SINGAPORE
Singapore has begun evaluating different proposed logistical support packages for its planned fleet of eight new attack helicopters, following the recent submission of tenders by rival airframe and powerplant suppliers.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has sought to maximise its options by requesting separate airframe and engine tenders, on both commercial and government-furnished bases.
A key consideration in system choice will be the provision for in-service support and training for its initial planned purchase of machines.
Boeing and General Electric are offering the T700-701C-powered version of the AH-64D Apache through US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) channels. To ensure a choice of engines, Singapore also requested direct commercial proposals. These include the Rolls-Royce Turboméca RTM322, selected for the British Army's WAH-64 variant.
Eurocopter and MTU/Turboméca/R-R have submitted competing bids for the MTR390- powered Tiger HAC. Denel of South Africa had been invited by Singapore to compete with the CSH-2 Rooivalk, but it is understood to have declined to bid, preferring to focus on placing the helicopter with Malaysia.
Singapore's logistics planning conference is focusing on maintenance and support for its future attack helicopter. Both the FMS Apache and Tiger bids include provision for overseas helicopter basing and training. France and the USA already play host to other RSAF units. Selection of an RTM322-powered AH-64 would entail separate support in the USA and possibly co-operation from the British Army. The RSAF is expected to decide by December.
Australia is expected to issue a request for tender in mid-1999 for around 30 fire support and reconnaissance helicopters. South Korea has rekindled its interest in an anti-tank helicopter and plans to issue a formal request for proposals in December for about 18 machines, while the Japan Defence Agency is hoping to secure full-scale funding for its AH-X programme from 2000.
Source: Flight International
