RUAG to upgrade Swiss transport helicopters
RUAG is to upgrade eight Cougar transport helicopters of the Swiss Air Force, the company announced on 9 January.
The Cougar's electronic flight control, navigation and communication systems require extensive modernisation. The upgrade package will include new flight management computers, a precision navigation system for instrument flights, a collision avoidance system which alerts pilots to aircraft in critical proximity, and a system developed by RUAG which emits an audible signal when the rotorcraft leaves a defined flight level.
The helicopters will be fitted with helmet mounted displays for projecting the most important flight data on the pilot’s visor, and new generation radio equipment and satellite phones for efficient communications. The helicopters with also be equipped with the latest IDAS-3 self-defence system, which alerts the crew to radar, laser and electro-optical waves, as well as missiles. It also issues countermeasures, such as dispensing decoys.
The company will also conduct a full overhaul on the helicopters. This will include the disassembling of helicopters, checking of the relevant parts for wear and damages and repair or replacement of parts as necessary.
The helicopters are used to transport personnel and materials, support SAR missions and for disaster relief missions in Switzerland and abroad.
The helicopters will be upgraded by mid-2022.
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