Eurocopter recently said it handed over its first upgraded Puma Mk2 helicopter to the U.K. Ministry of Defense.
The modified aircraft received modifications to improve performance, mission capability and safety, the ministry said in a statement. Now, it will undergo further testing.
To date, Eurocopter has completed the initial upgrade process on three Puma helicopters, all of which are in flight testing. The first of these will be delivered to QinetiQ’s military test and evaluation center for further trials.
The Puma Mk2 helicopters represent a key element of the U.K.’s medium battlefield support helicopter capability, and will be deployed for day and night tactical troop and load movement.
The upgrade will extend the operational lifetime until 2025 and significantly upgrade the capabilities of 24 of the Royal Air Force Puma helicopters. These Puma helicopters will be able to carry twice the payload three times as far as the unmodified Puma.
“This delivery milestone marks another important accomplishment in a program that is vital for the U.K.’s combat capabilities, and it results equally from Eurocopter’s commitment to its success and our close cooperation with the Ministry of Defense,” said Markus Steinke, the managing director of Eurocopter UK.
Enhancements for the Puma Mk2 include major performance and safety improvements with the use of new Makila 1A1 turboshaft engines; the integration of a full glass cockpit incorporating modern avionics and a flight management system; the implementation of a digital automatic flight control system; as well as the incorporation of a secure communications suite, new defensive aids and ballistic protection for crew and passengers.
Additionally, the helicopter’s greater onboard fuel capacity and lower fuel consumption will increase the Puma Mk2’s operating range.