Bell Helicopters & BAE Systems team to provide enhanced helicopter support in Australia

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World Defense & Security News - Bell Helicopters & BAE Systems
 
 
Bell Helicopters & BAE Systems team to provide enhanced helicopter support in Australia
 
Bell Helicopter, company, announced yesterday at Singapore Air Show 2016 it has signed an agreement with BAE Systems Australia to pursue military rotorcraft opportunities in Australia. "The signing yesterday with BAE Systems establishes the groundwork for what will be the premier provider of service and support for future customers of Bell Helicopter military rotorcraft in Australia," said Lisa Atherton, executive vice president of Military Business for Bell Helicopter.
     
Bell Helicopters BAE Systems team to provide enhanced helicopter support in Australia 640 001Bell Helicopters AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter and UH-1Y Venom utility helicopter
     
"BAE Systems is an Australian aerospace leader with unmatched technical knowledge and expertise. This relationship aligns our interests and pursuits as we work together to pursue opportunities to strengthen and support the capability and posture of the Australian Defence Force," Lisa Atherton added.

Under the teaming agreement, BAE Systems will play a significant role in providing support for Bell Helicopter AH-1Z Viper attack rotorcraft. This will include overseeing helicopter maintenance and sustainment, and supporting training for future customers.

"We are looking forward to working closely on opportunities with Bell Helicopter as its sustainment and support partner in Australia," said Steve Drury, BAE Systems Australia Aerospace Director. "We are one of Australia's leading, total aircraft sustainment providers, committed to maximising defence capability for least cost. We have been maintaining rotary wing aircraft for more than 20 years and this long-term strategic partnership with Bell Helicopter offers a superior end-to-end military rotorcraft solution."

The AH-1Z Viper is the world's most advanced attack helicopter. It shares 85% commonality of major components with Bell Helicopter's UH-1Y Venom utility rotorcraft, enhancing deployability and maintainability, while reducing training requirements and the logistical footprint between the two platforms.

The AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom are marinized aircraft, designed specifically for sustained high performance when operating on ship and shore bases, in the open seas, littoral zones, and in desert and tropical environments. The airframes are manufactured to resist corrosion present in coastal and humid environments, making these aircraft mission-capable in practically every environment on the planet.