Germany to send WS-61 Westland Sea King helicopters to Ukraine
Germany has committed to sending Ukraine six of its 21 retiring WS-61 Westland Sea King multirole, amphibious helicopters.
The Turbomeca- and AVIC Engine-developed Ardiden 3C helicopter engine has completed its first run at the Turbomeca Bordes plant in France. According to the companies the run was successful in confirming the aeromechanical behaviour and performances of the new generation engine.
Known as WZ16 in China, the engine is being developed to meet growing market requirements for the 6 to 8 tons helicopter segment, including the Chinese Avicopter AC352. The engine has been designed to be modular with dual channel FADEC to be as reliable and easy to operate as possible, with low fuel consumption.
The Ardiden 3C / WZ16 engine will now enter the test and certification phases of the development programme. Some preliminary testing of major components has already been performed with positive results.
Olivier Andriès, chairman and CEO, Turbomeca, said: ‘This first run reflects the high quality of our partnership with AVIC Engine and is the first concrete step of a long term and sustainable programme.’
Germany has committed to sending Ukraine six of its 21 retiring WS-61 Westland Sea King multirole, amphibious helicopters.
Boeing has clinched a major contract modification to further its backing of the US Special Operations Command’s MH-47G Chinook aircraft modernisation effort.
Two KAI helicopters, the KUH-1E utility helicopter and the Light Attack Helicopter (LAH), have taken centre stage at the Dubai Airshow 2023.
The Italian Navy now boasts a fleet of 56 NH90 helicopters comprising 46 SH-90As and 10 MH-90As.
The Argentinian Air Force (FAA) and the Argentinian Naval Aviation Command (COAN) are looking for options to upgrade their helicopter fleets.
Lockheed Martin promises a boost to the British job market and export opportunities, while strengthening ties with Poland and positioning the UK for a future in rotorcraft technology in the event of a New Medium Helicopter competition triumph.