Air Corps is to get six new helicopters

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Mark Hennessy, Political Correspondent

The Department of Defence has rejected a bid by a major US arms company, Sikorsky, to supply Blackhawk helicopters to the Air Corps.

Two light EC-135 helicopters will be bought from the French/German company Eurocopter, while four heavier AB139 models will be acquired from the Italian/UK firm Bell Augusta.

The smaller helicopter, which is already in service with the Garda, will be used for pilot training, while the AB139 will be used for heavier duties, including limited troop transport.

The AB139, which is in service with the US coastguard, will also be used for air ambulance, inland search and rescue, VIP transports and Garda co-operation duties.

Last night, the Minister for Defence, Mr O'Dea, said he wanted contract negotiations to be completed "as a matter of urgency" by the middle of December.

The purchase will provide "a very significant boost" for the Army and Air Corps.

"(It) is another positive indication of the Government's commitment to ensure that all branches of the Defence Forces are fully equipped."

The plan to purchase the six helicopters, which could cost up to €50 million, was begun by Mr O'Dea's predecessor, Mr Michael Smith, but was abandoned as part of the cutbacks enforced after the 2002 general election.

The Air Corps currently has 13 helicopters, including Alouette models that are 40 years old.

Some of the helicopters may be sold when the new models come into service next year.

Last night, sources close to Sikorsky indicated the company would protest strongly at the Department of Defence's decision, arguing that the Government has simply opted for cheaper options.

Some Air Corps officers favoured the Blackhawk, which is in service with 39 military forces and is currently facing action with the US army in Iraq.

The battle for the Defence Forces' contract between Sikorsky, Bell Augusta and Eurocopter has been bitter on occasions, with threats of legal action. Sikorsky had begun final negotiations to sell five helicopters to the Air Corps before Mr Smith scrapped the contract.

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