July 22, 2020 | International, Aerospace
Rome, July 17, 2020 - Leonardo announced today further enhancements for the AW139 intermediate twin engine market leader with the recently obtained EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) certifications for the Honeywell Primus Epic integrated avionics Phase 8 software and the EGPWS (Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System) optional kit with offshore modes. The Phase 8 software release marks the introduction of an advanced Synthetic Vision System (SVS) specifically tailored for helicopter applications, improved 2D maps and wireless data loading delivering even greater all-weather capabilities and mission effectiveness for all commercial and government missions.
This latest standard increases crew situational awareness and reduces workload for operations at night or in marginal weather. The advanced Synthetic Vision System assists with navigation and landing approaches when operating within challenging terrain, oil rigs, and other demanding scenarios, which is accomplished via 3D presentation of the external scenario, including surrounding terrain, obstacles, runways and helipads within the background of the Primary Flight Display. A user-friendly 2D Interactive Navigation (INAV) feature showing the helicopter position and flight plan on a map into the Multi-Functional Display (MFD) delivers unparalleled navigation system alignment and precision with the actual flight path taking into account environmental factors. Phase 8 has also wireless connectivity embedded, providing high speed data access for flight plans transfer and maintenance data gathering from the aircraft. Additionally, Custom Approach functionality provides the capability to design, set and fly an automated approach to any user-defined location, including oil rig helidecks.
The introduction of the new EGPWS version -036, which is also available for Phase 7, perfectly complements the latest software release and enhanced navigation capabilities for safer offshore operations. This more sophisticated HTAWS (Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System) introduces recommendations of CAA CAP 1519 for optimal use in offshore environments, and gives pilots more time margin and earlier notifications for warning of a potential collision. This will prove to be a key enabler for recognizing and responding to unsafe conditions.
Orders for nearly 1200 units in over 70 countries have been placed by more than 280 commercial, para-military, and military customers worldwide and over 1050 helicopters are in service with more than 2.8 million flight hours logged in operations to date. With more than 1000 kits certified to date and continued capability growth, the AW139 remains unmatched in its' category as the world's most important helicopter programme in the last 15 years. The AW139 has a proven track record of outstanding mission accomplishment in the harshest conditions.
View source version on Leonardo: https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/17-07-2020-leonardo-aw139-s-capabilities-further-enhanced-with-new-avionics-software-release-and-kit-certification
September 25, 2023 | International, Land
The order is part of the IDIQ* frame contract awarded in October 2022, the fourth consecutive five-year contract awarded KONGSBERG for the delivery and support of the US Army CROWS
October 15, 2021 | International, Aerospace
Skies caught up with six companies at the 2021 NBAA convention in Las Vegas, Nevada, who have launched new products in the past year.
February 28, 2020 | International, Aerospace
February 27, 2020 - In a contract led by the French Armament General Directorate (DGA) for the French Navy, Babcock, will work in partnership with Airbus Helicopters (AH) and Safran Helicopter Engines (SHE) to provide four H160 helicopters, helicopter modifications and through-life support. The H160 is a part of the interim fleet which will replace the Alouette III before the Guépard's entry into service. The aircraft will be used by the French Navy on demanding Search and Rescue (SAR) missions and will be based at two locations in North and West France. Babcock is the global launch customer for the H160 helicopter. This 10-year contact commences operations in 2022 and represents a milestone in the French MOD procurement process as it is the first time that a contract includes both hire and purchase of a brand new aircraft and its global support. This contract marks a significant step in Babcock France's deepening collaboration with French military forces after the Jet Fighters Modernized Training Programme (FOMEDEC) signed in 2016 for the French Air Force. It confirms Babcock's military air expertise and commitment to support France's armed forces. Military Aviation Director for Babcock France, Pierre Basquin said: “We are very proud to be part of this innovative project with our partners. All together, we will provide both the H160 to the French Navy with a high level of availability and allow the DGA to prepare for the entry into service of the Guépard.” Working closely with the DGA, Navy, AH and SHE stakeholders, Babcock is now driving forward with mobilisation activities. With a strong framework already in place, we will ensure the customer's faith in our trusted to deliver culture is well placed. Babcock Aviation is focused on defence and emergency services operations. Our mission is to save lives, protect communities and support the defence of nations. View source version on Babcock: https://www.babcockinternational.com/news/babcock-to-provide-helicopters-and-support-for-the-french-navy/