Brazil to receive first upgraded Panther K2 aircraft

Airbus Helicopters’ Helibras subsidiary is set to deliver the first two upgraded AS365 Panther K2 helicopters to the Brazilian Army this month following work to increase the aircraft’s power, update avionics and increase mission capabilities.

Thirty four aircraft are to be upgraded under the programme, which will see the AS365 remain operational for another 25 years.

Following an amendment to the agreement, the modifications introduced to the helicopter’s enhanced configuration will be standardised pending favourable evaluation by the Brazilian Army Aviation Command. Should the evaluations be successful, Helibras will continue modernising the remaining 32 AS365 K Panthers in the Brazilian Army’s inventory through 2021.

Helibras’ Panther K2 is the first helicopter to be fully certified in Brazil by the country’s Aerospace Technology and Science Department.

Eduardo Marson, CEO, Helibras, said: ‘The modernisation of military aircraft such as the Panther K2 is taking place in fleets with hi-tech assets and a high purchase value, be they fleets of helicopters, airplanes or ships.

‘This upgrade effort allows Helibras to gain expertise in the key technologies offered in high-performance aircraft types such as the Dauphin family – on which the Panther military helicopter is based – and opens the way for the development of new projects through the company’s engineering centre. The Super Puma and Cougar helicopters are examples of this, and just by introducing a process whereby old parts are replaced by more modern systems, we are able to extend their service life for 25 years at least.’

The Panther K2 has been fitted with new Arriel 2C2CG engines that deliver 40 percent more power, new engine fairings, a new glass cockpit with a 4-axis autopilot, new wiring and a cable-cutting device. In addition to night vision goggle-compatibility, the helicopter also features a new altimeter and weather radar, the latest navigation and communication radios and a new tail rotor – significantly improving performance and safety.

The Panther K2 has capacity for one or two pilots and 10 troops, a maximum takeoff weight of 4,300kg, and a top speed of 175kts, an increase from 150kts prior to upgrade.