Sikorsky transfers S-70i to Aselsan
Sikorsky has transferred an S-70i Black Hawk helicopter to Aselsan for use as the prototype aircraft for the Turkish Utility Helicopter Program (TUHP), the company announced on 2 March.
The aircraft will enable Sikorsky to integrate an Aselsan-developed avionics suite into the Turkish armed forces' new T70 utility helicopter, and later into Turkish-built Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk aircraft to be sold internationally.
Called the Integrated Modular Avionics System (IMAS), the new avionics suite is a collaborative design by Aselsan, Sikorsky, Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).
The suite will provide pilots with powerful smart displays, point-and-click functionality to speed input of pilot commands, and ergonomic enhancements to the pilot vehicle interface that will reduce pilot workload. Navigational improvements tailored to requirements will include an integrated terrain avoidance warning system, an integrated advanced digital map, and coupled flight control functions for guided approaches to landing zones.
TAI leads a team that will build at least 109 helicopters with the T70 designation for the TUHP. The IMAS suite is expected in time for initial deliveries of T70 aircraft to Turkish end users in 2021.
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