Air Force helicopter replacement announced

The Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Graham Lintott has today welcomed a Government announcement that the Agusta 109 is the preferred helicopter to replace the Air Forces fleet of Sioux Helicopters.

“This is excellent news for the Air Force and those that depend on the helicopter support we provide,” says Air Vice-Marshal Lintott.

“The Agusta 109 is a modern and very capable training and light utility helicopter (T/LUH) with a growing international customer base and assured long-term support. It has been designed to meet current and future requirements and provides an excellent long-term investment”, he said.

The T/LUH will provide an effective platform to train aircrew in basic helicopter operations plus the advanced skills required to operate both the Navy SH-2G Seasprite and the highly capable RNZAF NH90 helicopter that will come into service in 2010.

The Ministry of Defence will now begin negotiations with Agusta-Westland for five aircraft and a simulator.