Singapore is seeking information on single-engined light turbine helicopters to meet its requirement for a new training fleet of about 10 aircraft to replace its current 10 Eurocopter AS550 Fennecs.
Manufacturers have until 30 September to respond to a request for information (RFI) issued by Singapore's Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA). Singapore plans to test-fly candidate aircraft in October and November and is expected to hand a formal tender to shortlisted manufacturers in December. The new aircraft should be operational in early 2006.
The competition will probably pit the Bell 206 against the Eurocopter EC120. Enstrom and Schweizer are also reviewing the programme, but industry sources say their turbine products - the 480B and 333, respectively - may prove too small for the requirement.
Sources say Singapore's requirement for new helicopter trainers has leapfrogged over an earlier requirement for new fixed-wing trainers. Singapore issued an RFI in early 2002 for basic fixed-wing trainers, but the programme has since been delayed (Flight International, 16-22 March).
Sources now expect Singapore to select replacements for 30 Aermacchi S211 basic trainers and, subsequently, almost 20 McDonnell Douglas TA-4SU advanced jet trainers, after its helicopter training fleet is replaced. Singapore has not yet indicated how many new fixed-wing trainers it will acquire.
The new helicopter will be used for basic training, instructor training and contingency operations. It must have a cruising speed of at least 110kt (200km/h) and operate up to 10,000ft (3,000m) in all weather conditions, says the DSTA.
Other requirements include 3h endurance, 460km (250nm) range and a dual-control cockpit with a multifunction display.
Singapore is also running a competition to acquire six new naval helicopters, with Eurocopter's AS532C Cougar, NH Industries' NH90 and Sikorsky's S-92 under consideration.
BRENDAN SOBIE / SINGAPORE
Source: Flight International
