Air Corps to get six new helicopters

[Frank]

Air Corps to get six new helicopters

The Air Corps is to get six new helicopters to replace ageing models in a E60m deal, it emerged tonight.

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.

Defence Minister Willie O’Dea said he would sign the contracts in January. "The negotiations have been concluded successfully and I look forward to these helicopters coming on stream over the next three years,” he said.

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

Some helicopters might be sold off when the new models come into service next year.

The two light utility Eurocopter models will be used for pilot training. The four heavier Bell Augusta helicopters will be used for troop transport, inland search and rescue and air ambulance duties.

The Department of Defence had originally planned to purchase the helicopters in 2001.

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