John Browne
Question:148 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for Defence the types of aircraft that are to be acquired and the numbers involved, in upgrading the Air Corps. [15085/01]
Written Answers. - Air Corps Equipment.
The Government recognises that there are urgent equipment modernisation requirements in the Air Corps. In recognition of these requirements, I announced on 1 March of last year, the allocation of up to £55 million over the next three years for this purpose. These funds will initiate vital investment in new aircraft for the Air Corps.
The first indicator of this investment is the current project for the acquisition of medium lift helicopters for the Air Corps. The tender competition for the acquisition of the helicopters is pro gressing well. This major investment programme involves the acquisition of two medium lift helicopters, with an option of a third, for search and rescue purposes as well as an option for two medium lift helicopters for general purpose military transport.
The tender competition is being carried out in two stages, a request for proposals – RFP – stage and a request for tenders – RFT – stage. The closing date for the receipt of tenders was 19 April 2001. Fours tenders were received. The four companies involved are Sikorsky from the USA, EH Industries Limited from England, Eurocopter from France and CHC Scotia from Scotland.
A comprehensive evaluation process has begun on the proposed helicopters. The evaluation will, of necessity, take some time to complete. It is expected that the Department will be in a position to place a contract later this year.
There are, of course, other equipment requirements in the Air Corps. A priority is the requirement to acquire fixed wing training aircraft for Air Corps cadets and officers. When proposals are received from the military authorities in relation to this I will arrange for my Department to progress the matter as one of urgency.