ASIA PACIFIC
With "industry sources" scattered throughout East Asia and the Pacific Rim (we daren't say exactly where in case we blow their cover), backed by Barney O'Shea in Australia we keep exclusive tabs on the commercial and military scene throughout the area. Typical News ...
* Industry sources report that China has begun domestic production of the Mil Mi-171 helicopter under licence at a factory in the Wuhou district of Chengdu in Sichuan province.
Initially the facility is assembling aircraft from components supplied by Mil Moscow and the Ulan Ude helicopter plant, but it is planned to gradually transfer the manufacturing technology to allow the factory to become self-sufficient. 20 Mi-171s are expected to be completed this year, with at least 80 likely to be delivered to the Chinese Army Aviation Corps over the next four years.
*The South Korean government has signed a second contract for an additional AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter, for operation by the Gangwon Fire Fighting Department. This is the third AW139 to be sold into South Korea for government use.
The new helicopter will be configured for fire fighting, with belly tank equipment and provision to carry a Bambi Bucket. The aircraft will also be fitted with a rescue hoist, emergency medical service provisions and a cabin option to transport 12 passengers and separately two VIPs.
*Turbomeca opened its first dedicated support centre in New Zealand in early April, located in Queenstown on South Island. The new TurboSupport facility will provide support for nearly 150 Turbomeca engines in service throughout the country, and future purchases that will include the powerplants for the AgustaWestland A109LUH and NH Industries NH90 helicopters on order for the Royal New Zealand Air Force. The facility will initially be manned by a regional Field Representative and a rapid response technician, with some local logistical support as well as a provision for deep maintenance on all the Turbomeca engine variants operated in the region.