Bell CEO Lisa Atherton, speaking before Farnborough airshow, has noted the increased interest in Special Missions Aircraft – commercial aircraft that can be configured for military roles.
“It basically takes proven parapublic helicopters and integrates them with some modern military systems…as…a full turnkey solution for countries who need a military option, but can’t directly afford a full military solution that the U.S. offers.”
I could translate this as a ‘Toyota’ vs ‘Ferrari’, where a well proven workhorse equipped with sensors and weapons offers essential ‘bang for buck’ on more expensive and boutique models. Of course, if you want a Ferrari, and can afford to buy and maintain it, then perhaps nothing else will do. But Aviation has always produced upstarts.
One configuration starting to make waves is a Bell 412 modified by US-based Rotorcraft Services Group for multiple maritime roles, including ASW/ASuW. The RSG mod adds EO/FLIR, AESA radar, dipping sonar (or buoys) and MAD sensors, along with extra mission systems, and options on weapons, countermeasures, comms and networking. The 412 is fully integrated for ship operations with blade fold, landing assist, towing and tie-down mods.
Whilst the NZDF has been testing SHOL limits and qualifying the NH90 and SH-2G on NZ’s sustainment vessel HMNZS Aotearoa these past months, RSG have been qualifying their 412 mod and certifying crews on the European FREMM and SIGMA class frigates in the Atlantic.
Operating in winds of up to 30kts steady over the deck, with pitch of 5 degrees and roll of 7, crews have achieved minimum times for blade fold and towing by day and night. The aircraft has performed flawlessly, demonstrating 100% serviceability over hundreds of deck landings.
Says RSG test pilot Dan Deutermann, “I have operated a lot of birds from a variety of decks…this thing is a beast!”
