Rafael lifts the veil on Aerospike
New air-to-surface missile for fixed-wing aircraft from Rafael is optimised for close air support, counterterrorism and anti-A2AD applications.
The transfer of the final modernised Cougar helicopter was celebrated with a ceremonial handover. (Photo: RUAG)
RUAG has transferred the last of nine Cougars to the Swiss Air Force’s helicopter fleet as part of the Cougar modernisation programme.
After a successful decision to undergo a value retention programme to modernise the TH89 Super Puma to become the TH06, the TH98 Cougar was selected to be upgraded to the TH18 model.
The modernisation programme received approval from the Federal Council in 2018 and started in early 2019 with the conversion of the first Cougar.
There were two goals of the modernisation programme, first to extend the useful life of the 20-year old helicopter and second to harmonise the Super Puma and Cougar transport helicopters to allow more uniform and simplified operations and training.
The AS532 Cougar is a development of the SA 330 Puma, first introduced in 1977. According to Shephard Defence Insight, the platform has at least 26 confirmed international customers.
This news follows RUAG’s announcement to divest many of its defence subsidiaries. Since just last month, RUAG has announced the planned sale of RUAG Australia to ASDAM and the completed sale of RUAG Simulation & Training to Thales.
New air-to-surface missile for fixed-wing aircraft from Rafael is optimised for close air support, counterterrorism and anti-A2AD applications.
India continues to develop its BrahMos missile, with the extended-range type recently tested.
India has set in motion yet another tender process to buy UAVs, this time quadcopters able to fly at altitude.
To speed up acquisition, Australia has selected the Austrian-designed Camcopter for a naval UAV requirement.
Replacing European-designed helicopters, Australia has turned back to the US for attack and naval rotorcraft.
Naval Group was not present at the Sydney expo after cancellation of its submarine programme, but GA-ASI put in an appearance despite its own Australian setback.