Multi-Role Helo Fifth Of 46-Aircraft Order

Australia’s Project AIR 9000 recently delivered the first locally-assembled MRH-90 Multi-Role Helicopter to the Australian Defence Force.

The MRH-90 is the Australian variant of the NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH), the other version being the NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH) developed by NH Industries. A total of 46 MRH-90s are being acquired under Project AIR 9000 Phases 2, 4 and 6.

The first four aircraft delivered were fully-assembled in Eurocopter's facilities in Europe. The remaining 42 MRH-90s are being assembled by Australian Aerospace in Brisbane and will progressively be delivered until the end of 2014.

The MRH-90 fleet will ultimately replace Australian Navy Sea King and Army Black Hawk helicopter fleets. The Commonwealth of Australia selected the MRH-90 to modernize its military helicopter fleets, as well as to consolidate the fleet to a common type.

"This acceptance of the first Australian-made MRH90 to the Australian authorities is indeed an important accomplishment," said Dominique Maudet, Eurocopter's Executive Vice-President Governmental Helicopters. "It shows once again the successful cooperation between NHI, Eurocopter, Australian Aerospace and the Commonwealth. The MRH-90 program, through a comprehensive Australian Industry Capability program, will generate 400 highly skilled new jobs in Australia and inject A$1.34 billion into the national economy. A 10-year though-life support program will also be carried out in Australia."

The MRH-90 is a fly-by-wire, all-composite construction, medium-lift helicopter that competes with the Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk. With a larger cabin than Australia's current troop lift helicopters, a rear ramp, weather radar and forward looking infra-red, the MRH-90 can transport greater loads and carry more troops in adverse conditions.

To date, 507 NH90 helicopters have been ordered by the armed forces of 14 nations.

FMI: www.eurocopter.com, www.defence.gov.au/