Defence Update- New Helos for Anzac Frigates

The objective is to have the first helicopter for the eight Anzac ships delivered in January 1999. A buy of 14 machines is designed to cover operational requirements, training and attrition. Prior to the first delivery it is possible that the current Navy S-70B Seahawks, which operate from the FFG7 Perry class guided missile frigates, may be used as an interim measure for flying trials, but the Sikorsky Seahawks are considered too heavy and costly for the Anzacs operationally, and they also possess capabilities in excess of requirements in the Anzacs.

A second batch of 14 helicopters is also contemplated for the RAN’s Offshore Patrol Combatant (OPC) which is expected to get the go-ahead soon, regardless of whether or not there is a joint collaborative programme with the Royal Malaysian Navy. Commonality of helicopter for both the Anzacs and the OPCs is a key factor in the proposals.

The Transfield Defence Systems’ patrol boat design has been offered to both the Malaysian and Australian navies, and, at the time of going to print, is considered a strong chance to win both orders. Helicopter manufacturers therefore have an eye not just on an Australian Defence order, but a buy offering considerable scope in Malaysia, and possibly in other countries in the region.

Australian Defence Force and Navy planning envisages the procurement of nine OPCs for the RAN, with an option for three more. The Malaysians are talking about an initial order of six patrol boats in what they call their Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPC) contract, which most likely would be extended over time to total something like 27 units. Subject to budget approval, the Navy expects to release a Request for Tender (RFT) for the first batch of helicopters in June. It is anticipated that the tender will remain open for about six months.

The Capability Submission covering the planned acquisition of the first batch of intermediate helicopters for the Navy was approved by the high level Force Structure Policy and Planning Committee (FSPPC) in December. A draft RFT and Statement of Requirement was circulated earlier this year, and was followed by an industry briefing in Canberra on February 23. Under the actual RFT to be released in the mid year, a contract is scheduled to be let in August or September 1996.

This RFT, which will look for a maritime intermediate helicopter ranging somewhere between 2,725 and 5,900 kg (6,000 and 13,000 lbs) in all-up weight, will give better definition of requirements than the preliminary statement.

Companies almost certain to bid include Westland with its Super Lynx; Eurocopter with the Panther; and Kaman, offering rebuilt and upgraded Sea Sprites. It also seems likely that Sikorsky will bid a naval version of its commercial S-76 Eagle, while Bell may offer a wheeled version of its 412, or perhaps its 230.

Meanwhile, Agusta of Italy has announced that it will be bidding its A 129 Mongoose in the Australian Army’s fire support and reconnaissance Kiowa replacement project, Air 87, but it is not clear if the company also will bid something like its AB 212 or the A 109KN for the Navy’s new helicopter.

The Royal New Zealand Navy is also seeking up to six maritime helicopters for similar duties as envisaged by the RAN. However the programmes are not linked, and both countries have stressed they will decide independently on the type they procure. Should both countries select the same aircraft and/or systems, there would be scope for a joint approach to logistics and other support services once the aircraft come into service.

The New Zealand Navy has a similar requirement for helicopters for its Anzac frigates. The RNZN RFT was issued in mid-December, 1994. Some observers believe the Kiwis are looking for a quick off-the-shelf buy.

It needs to be remembered that New Zealand is getting the second and fourth Anzac ships, with the first one to be launched soon. It is too early to say if the New Zealand Government will take up the option to buy a further two vessels. Such a decision is a few years down the track.

While the RNZN may well opt for an early purchase, the RAN’s requirements are more tailored to capabilities perceiving operations in our region to the north.

The Royal Australian Navy’s Director of Aviation Projects is Captain Brian Rowe. Max Hawkins is the Managing Editor of ‘The Australian Defence Report’.