Defence Helicopter

Read the latest military helicopter news from our team of expert journalists and analysts, giving you the 'so what' behind the latest military rotorcraft headlines.

South Korean defence industry demonstrates its tech prowess

Shephard takes a deep dive into the latest developments in the South Korean defence sector as the country arms itself to deal with current and future threats.

Northrop Grumman shows off new M230 Chain Gun at AUSA

The development of a dual-feed version of the 30mm M230 LF Chain Gun could allow for rapid selection between different ammunition types for more versatile battlefield engagement.

Sikorsky given DARPA fund to install autonomy on US Army Black Hawk

The Lockheed Martin company plans to integrate the MATRIX system into the MX helicopter by 2025.

Italy looks to advance development of airborne electronic warfare initiatives

Italy’s ELT Group involvement in airborne electronic warfare initiatives, including developing systems for the Eurofighter Typhoon and future sixth-generation combat aircraft, has been focused on integrated sensing, non-kinetic effects and communications.

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Air Warfare

Collins Aerospace wins $19 million contract to upgrade RAF CH-47 Chinooks

13th November 2024

The Chinook cockpit upgrade will enhance the UK RAF’s Chinooks’ collaboration with the US and improve operational effectiveness and safety, Collins have claimed.
Air Warfare

Airbus to deliver 19 H135 training helicopters to Royal Canadian Air Force

4th November 2024

The agreement includes H135 acquisition, support and services, support for the development of a ground-based training solution and advanced engineering support. Deliveries for the aircraft are expected to commence in the first half of 2026.
Air Warfare

Sikorsky’s UH-60M Black Hawk given boost as Greece and Australia share fleet updates

29th October 2024

Australia and Greece are among a group of nations who have recently placed orders for UH-60M Black Hawks to replace their ageing fleets and boost their armed forces’ operational capabilities.
Air Warfare

European next-generation rotorcraft programme moves closer to reality through new MoU

21st October 2024

Launched in 2020 and managed by NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) programme aims to replace medium multi-role capabilities ending their life cycle in 2035 and beyond.
Air Warfare

‘Never done before’: tiltrotor technology and the future battlespace

14th October 2024

In conversation... Bell's Frank Lazzara talks to Shephard's Gerrard Cowan about the potential of tiltrotor designs to revolutionize U.S. Army maneuver operations, and how the technology could transform other mission sets across DoD and international armed services.
Air Warfare

UK Royal Navy Wildcat fires Sea Venom anti-ship missile

9th October 2024

The Wildcat is fitted with .50cal gun and carries Stingray torpedoes and Marlet lightweight missiles. Sea Venom substantially boosts the platform’s punch.
Air Warfare

Thailand-bound AH-6i helicopter completes first flight

4th October 2024

A total of eight aircraft will replace the Royal Thai Army’s ageing AH-IF Cobra fleet as part of a contract deal worth US$103.8 million.
Training

Florida firm wins Bell 412 maintenance training contract in El Salvador

2nd October 2024

The deal, ECS’s 12th contract under the Enterprise Training Services Contract (ETSC) programme, will run from late-August 2024 to late-August 2025.
Defence Notes

How temporary funding could affect the US military’s critical acquisition programmes

25th September 2024

Operating under continuing resolutions would affect Patriot, Virginia-class, Columbia-class and B-21 programmes.
Air Warfare

The Philippines prepares for high-end fighter operations

24th September 2024

The Southeast Asian country’s air force is broadening the warfighting mission sets of its FA-50PH by shifting focus towards offensive counter air, defensive counter air and ground attack missions.
Air Warfare

Indonesia orders Airbus H145s for military training

23rd September 2024

The decision to purchase the H145 by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) has marked the first time the Indonesian military has selected the platform.
Naval Warfare

BAE Systems selected for Sting Ray torpedo upgrade work

13th September 2024

The Sting Ray can be deployed from frigates, helicopters and maritime patrol aircraft against submarine targets of all types. It uses an acoustic homing system and navigation system to detect, classify and attack targets autonomously.
Air Warfare

Iraq orders Airbus H225M helicopters

9th September 2024

The new helicopters will join Airbus H125, H135 and H145 aircraft already in Iraqi service and replace older Mi-17s.
Air Warfare

Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 ditching kills one crew member

5th September 2024

A ditching is a deliberate emergency landing on water, not a crash.
Naval Warfare

Indian Navy purchases anti-submarine sonobuoys to counter Chinese incursions

5th September 2024

The US approved the deal despite supply chain delays to other equipment ordered by India.
Air Warfare

In focus: UK New Medium Helicopter programme down to one bidder

3rd September 2024

The end of the long procurement process could be in sight as both Airbus and Sikorsky pull out over bid criteria.
Air Warfare

Norway awards contract for Bell 412 helicopter modification

3rd September 2024

The modifications are intended to upgrade the fleet and extend their active lifespan.
Digital Battlespace

US Army selects Northrop Grumman Athena sensor to improve threat detection capabilities for its aircraft

30th August 2024

According to the supplier, Athena is a next-generation missile warning sensor that provides 360-degree situational awareness.
Naval Warfare

US doubles its presence in the Middle East to de-escalate tensions in the region

28th August 2024

The Pentagon has increased its naval and aerial assets in the area due to Houthi and Hezbollah attacks.