AgustaWestland, CAE, BAE Systems To Provide Helicopter Training For Armed Forces

A helicopter manufacturer, a simulator company, and an aerospace giant have formed an an industry team to pursue the AIR 9000 Phase 7 program in Australia.

AgustaWestland, CAE, and BAE Systems said Monday that together they will pursue the AIR 9000 Phase 7 program, also called the Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS), which is intended to provide a rotary wing training capability for the Australian Navy and Army that meets the future rotary wing training needs of the Australian Defence Forces (ADF). The program aims to deliver a comprehensive training system that includes elements of live, synthetic and classroom helicopter instruction to train pilots, air combat officers, and rear crews. The new Helicopter Aircrew Training System will be designed to better train and prepare ADF helicopter aircrews for the advanced operational helicopters in the current and future ADF inventory.

"With this team, we have brought together the world's foremost rotorcraft capability provider in AgustaWestland, a global leader in simulation-based training with CAE, and one of the world's most capable through life support partners in BAE Systems," said Giuseppe Orsi, CEO, AgustaWestland. "We look forward to highlighting the breadth of our combined capabilities in support of Australia's AIR 9000 Phase 7 requirements."

AgustaWestland would offer a light twin helicopter type and associated aircraft support services required as part of the AIR 9000 Phase 7 program. CAE would have primary responsibility for the design of the overall synthetic training program, including the manufacture of training devices as well as classroom and simulator instruction. BAE Systems would lead all maintenance and support services.

"Defence forces around the world are increasing their use of simulation-based synthetic training to enhance safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness," said Martin Gagne, Group President, Military Products, Training and Services, CAE. "As the Australian Defence Forces look to improve their undergraduate rotary-wing training program through AIR 9000 Phase 7, CAE will bring innovation, capability and relevant experience to offer Australia world-class training services."

"As a major provider of through life support to five fixed and rotary wing aircraft fleets across the Army, Navy and the Air Force, BAE Systems has a proven sustainment record in this country," said Jim McDowell, CEO, BAE Systems Australia. "We believe this capability will be an integral part of developing and delivering a comprehensive and world-class helicopter aircrew training system to the ADF."

FMI: www.defence.gov.au