OCCAR launches Tiger HAD Mark II standard development

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World Defense & Security News - OCCAR
 
 
OCCAR launches Tiger HAD Mark II standard development
 
The development of the TIGER HAD Mark II standard has been launched by OCCAR on behalf of France with the signature of the relevant contracts between OCCAR, Airbus Helicopters TIGER and TDA Armements on 15 December 2016, the Agency announced on its website.
     
OCCAR launches Tiger HAD Mark II standard developmen 640 001A French Army Light Aviation's Tiger HAD attack helicopter
(Credit: French Ministry of Defense)
     
These contracts will cover the Development, Production and Support activities necessary to upgrade a fleet of 24 French HAD to the Mark II configuration. The first delivery is foreseen for mid 2020. The production will last until end of 2023.

This standard will provide new capabilities to the French TIGER HAD helicopters such as laser Guided Rockets (RPM) developed by TDA and a new GPS receiver (SAASM) and CRPA antenna system developed by THALES. Fitted with a semi-active laser seeker, Thales' laser guided rocket offers sub-metric precision and a range of around 6 kilometers.

The Tiger HAD (Hélicoptère d'Appui Destruction in French is pretty identical to the HAP version but better suited for operations in hot environments, thanks to a better ballistic protection and upgraded MTR390 engines. It is also equipped with the Hellfire II, and the Spike ER anti-armour missiles. The French Army Light Aviation currently operates 58 Tiger combat helicopters, among which 18 HAD version. All remaining HAP variant will be upgraded to the HAD standard. The French Army plans to have 67 Tiger HAD in service by 2025.