Defence Helicopter
Advanced Avionics (sponsored)
Mark Burnand, Chief Test Pilot at Leonardo Helicopters UK, talks through the advanced avionics on board the latest generation battlefield utility AW149 helicopter.
From its emergence as a ground-breaking design in the 1950s to its widespread deployment in diverse operations worldwide, the Chinook continues to leave an indelible mark on the aviation landscape. Shephard sums up the latest developments and tells you everything you need to know about the workhorse of many armies and air forces in the 2020s.
'For us, it’s building helicopters, not just assembling. It’s not only about NMH but about enduring social value in terms of exports from the UK,' Leonardo UK told Shephard at DSEI 2023.
According to multiple OSINT sources, Russian forces have lost possibly as many as 200 rotary-wing aircraft since February 2022. Some of these occurred in early high-profile operations, but most have been attrition casualties during the ongoing fighting. Shephard analyses the nature of these losses, and what lessons NATO attack helicopter operators should draw.
The design selected for the Rotary Wing Uncrewed Autonomous System is best suited for maritime operations.
With the satellite industry at a pivotal juncture, Intelsat is investing in advanced technologies like 5G and optical communications, striving to enhance worldwide connectivity and address emerging governmental needs.
From its emergence as a ground-breaking design in the 1950s to its widespread deployment in diverse operations worldwide, the Chinook continues to leave an indelible mark on the aviation landscape. Shephard sums up the latest developments and tells you everything you need to know about the workhorse of many armies and air forces in the 2020s.
Mark Burnand, Chief Test Pilot at Leonardo Helicopters UK, talks through the advanced avionics on board the latest generation battlefield utility AW149 helicopter.
The Chinook has served in every RAF campaign of the past 40 years. But in Afghanistan, it faced greater pressure than ever before.
13th June 2023
UVision has successfully demonstrated the airborne launch and engagement of a ground target by its Hero 120 loitering munition, fired from a Bell 412 helicopter.
9th June 2023
Under the leadership of new CEO Cedric Goubet, Safran Helicopter Engines is gearing up to double its production output in the next 18 months Despite facing significant supply chain disruptions.
8th June 2023
The initiative under the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) will equip Royal Navy observers and Royal Air Force weapon system officers with the skills to operate advanced aircraft.
8th June 2023
The Polish government is significantly increasing its defence budget and looks to grow its armed forces in an efforts to counter Russia's perceived threat. Under these plans, there is place for Armed Black Hawk attack helicopters next to the AW149s and Apaches.
7th June 2023
Malaysia is leasing a quartet of Black Hawks, giving the army its first taste of operating the American-built helicopter.
6th June 2023
The USMC is seeking air-launched swarming munitions as well as multi-domain reconnaissance and C2 systems to boost its frontline force.
6th June 2023
Argentina is to acquire six Bell 407 helicopters for search and rescue operations by the country's army and air force under a government-to-government contract with Canada.
5th June 2023
RAF Typhoon fighter jets have recently returned to Estonia, resuming their duty of patrolling the airspace along NATO's Eastern border.
2nd June 2023
Sikorsky has yet to reveal its production plans for its UK New Medium Helicopter contender while industry anxiously anticipate the release of critical acquisition targets. The company also continues the exploration of its X helicopter concept for the international market.
2nd June 2023
After crashes, the Indian military has grounded MiG-21 fighters and Dhruv helicopters. India still needs to find a way to overcome deep-seated challenges to replace ageing aircraft.
1st June 2023
CAE has been awarded a contract from General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) to support the US Army’s Flight School Training Support Services (FSTSS) at Fort Novosel (formerly Fort Rucker), Alabama.
26th May 2023
The Block II upgrade incorporates various enhancements to increase lift capability and commonality between US Army and allied fleets, reducing maintenance costs.
25th May 2023
The US government and industry aim to complete the replacement of affected clutch parts by autumn. The Japanese V-22 fleet is expected to follow the same procedure to avoid the the same problem arising.
19th May 2023
Leonardo has been granted new certification allowing it perform a full spectrum of military aviation maintenance training services.
18th May 2023
The milestone marks an important step towards standardising SAF use in aircraft engines, contributing to short-term decarbonisation goals.
16th May 2023
Exercise Spring Storm showcases the UK-led NATO Enhanced Forward Presence's robust military capabilities in a multinational exercise, bolstering defence and fostering collective security.
15th May 2023
Germany plans to retire its Tiger combat helicopters by 2038, citing technical problems, and replace them with an Airbus H145M fleet to meet NATO commitments.
12th May 2023
The donation of a utility helicopter by the UA will increase the Uruguayan peacekeeping deployment’s air support capabilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
10th May 2023
Speaking during SOF Week 2023, the head of PEO Rotary Wing for USSOCOM outlines his current priorities.