Denel Aviation Upgrades the Oryx On-Board Communication and Navigation Systems

Denel Aviation has been tasked with upgrading the Oryx helicopter’s on-board communication and navigation systems.

The systems’ upgrade, which will include the modification and installation of the new on-board equipment, as well as final flight testing, will ensure that these valuable helicopters are able to meet with the customer’s requirements and significantly extend their service life.

The Drummer project, which involves upgrading the Oryx on-board communication and navigation systems, was initiated in 2008. The Programme has progressed to point where Denel Aviation, ARMSCOR and the SAAF have agreed to the communication and navigation systems Design Baseline.

Denel Aviation is gearing itself to start the proto-type aircraft installation phase. “Our company’s systems engineering focus has enabled Denel Aviation to provide the highly specialised support services required,” says Ismail Dockrat, CEO: Denel Aviation. “We are pleased with the progress made on the project to date.”

The upgrade includes the installation of new equipment and the development of an interface between the older and newer technologies in the helicopter, as well as developing software for the new navigation computers. “The focus of the programme has been predominantly systems engineering,” explains Dockrat.

“While the ergonomics of the new systems are critical, developing the appropriate software to drive the new technology, has been the most challenging and time-consuming aspect of the project.”

All upgrades will be tested on Denel Aviation’s helicopter avionics engineering simulator, to ensure proper functionality, before being fitted to the actual aircraft. Denel Aviation’s helicopter Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) division will then be responsible for subsequent aircraft modification, as well as the final installation of the upgraded system. Initial flight tests, which are also to be conducted by Denel Aviation, are scheduled for the final quarter of 2009.

In performing this upgrade, Denel Aviation will assist the South African Air Force (SAAF) in extending the service life of these valuable aircraft. The project will thus provide a cost-effective means of keeping the SAAF flying – without needing to purchase new helicopters. As such, it forms a critical part of Denel Aviation’s recent MRO partnership with the SAAF, which sees the company taking responsibility for maintenance, repair and overhaul functions, thereby enabling the air force to focus on its core role of protecting the South African skies.

“Keeping our air force flying is something Denel Aviation is proud to be involved with,” concludes Dockrat. “Being able to conduct aviation upgrades such as this, within our borders, also translates into a cost-effective support service for South Africa’s aviation industry as a whole.”