Olivia Mitchell
Question:144 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Defence if the newly purchased helicopters have night flight capability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17552/04]
View answerTuesday, 15 June 2004
Questions (94)
Written answers
The procurement process for the acquisition of new helicopters for the Air Corps has commenced. Following discussions between senior officials in my Department and the military authorities, it has been decided that up to six helicopters will be acquired, two Light Utility Helicopters primarily for Air Corps crew training purposes and four larger Utility Helicopters, with the option of a further two such helicopters for use in support of the Army and for other ancillary uses such as air ambulance. The tender competition was advertised in the Official Journal of the European Communities on 29 May 2004. The closing date for the receipt of tenders is Friday, 23 July 2004.
The specifications for the helicopters in the Request for Tenders includes, inter alia, requirements for the aircraft to be twin-engined and have full night flying capabilities. The new aircraft will replace the current fleet of Dauphin, Alouette and Gazelle aircraft.