Guy Alcala wrote:
Thomas Schoene wrote:

I just wanted to start a new thread specifically
to look at the new aircraft
the Army is talking about buying instead of
the Comanche, and see what
options there are available. As I read the
briefings, there are basically
three new manned platforms. I doubt there
is funding for new designs in any
of these roles. While it is really premature
to say too much, with no
actual performance requirements set, I'm curious
what options folks see for
each.

1) Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (368 to
be bought).

Could this be a Sikorsky H-76?

The USCG is using A-109s for their armed helicopter
role; is this an option?

Probably not. I'd think an MD-5xx could be
in the running, if they go OTS.

2) Light Utility Helicopter (303 to be bought)

I know the Bell 412 has been mentioned.

AB-139, Bell 430, maybe something from EC (Suuurre).
Also the S-76, or the 430
for the recon mission. Kind of depends just
where they draw the line at
"Light".


Might the Marine Corps UH-1Y also be a candidate?
(Is this Huey II?)

3) C-XX Intra-Theater Lift (25 to be bought)

Presumably C-27J is the frontrunner. What
other options are there?

CASA C-295. Unlikely, given the C-27J's engine/cockpit
commonality with the
C-130J. The C-295 is smaller, slower and less
powerful, but cheaper.

Guy

Problem with foreign-built aircraft or helos for the U.S. military: the
NIH syndrome. Congress will make sure the military buys American unless there
is no other option.

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