First ADF HATS training helicopter takes flight

The first build EC135 T2+ helicopter for the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF’s) new Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS) has completed its first flight at the Airbus Helicopters production site in Donauwörth, Germany, on 16 January.

The 57 minute flight saw the Airbus Helicopters Flight Test Department validate the full performance of the aircraft’s systems and engines. Future flights will now be conducted to test specific customer equipment.

Peter Harris, head of sales – Australia Pacific, Airbus Helicopters, said: ‘At Airbus Helicopters we are thrilled to have reached such a fantastic milestone in only two months from contract signing last November. This clearly demonstrates the commitment that we have towards supporting Boeing Defence Australia in meeting the ADF’s needs for training all future combat helicopter aircrew for the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Army. We will take all of our milestones just as seriously.’

Boeing signed a contract with the Australian government on 14 November for the HATS programme, which covers Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy helicopter aircrew training for the next 25 years.

Airbus Helicopters will supply 15 EC135 T2+ helicopters for pilot training, with full flight simulators to be provided by Thales.

The EC135 T2+ is a civil design helicopter with a high-visibility glass cockpit and multi-axis auto-pilot. The aircraft is similar in performance and safety to the multi-role and combat helicopters now in service with the ADF - including new-generation Tiger ARH and MRH90 helicopters - and meets all training, technical and safety requirements for future army and navy aircrews.

Initial Operating Capability (IOC) is scheduled for late 2018. When operational the HATS system will accommodate up to 130 students a year covering pilots, aviation warfare officers, aircrewmen, sensor operators and qualified aircrew returning for instructor training.