Canada in Major Helicopter Tender

Abstract: June 30, 2006 -- Canada has announced a $4.2 billion program to acquire 16 medium- to heavy-lift helicopters, and wants the contractor to maintain the fleet for 20 years. Contenders were not identified, but likely candidates include the Boeing CH-47, the Sikorsky S-92, and the NH90 from European manufacturer Eurocopter.

OTTAWA, June 30, 2006 -- Canada has announced a $4.2 billion program to acquire 16 medium- to heavy-lift helicopters, and wants the contractor to maintain the fleet for 20 years. Contenders were not identified, but likely candidates include the Boeing CH-47, the Sikorsky S-92, and the NH90 from European manufacturer Eurocopter. "The requirement for this equipment is urgent. Delivery is expected as soon as possible," said a defense ministry statement that provided no specific details. According to the statement, the first of the 16 helicopters must be delivered within three years of the contract award, with the last craft arriving within five years. The armed forces say a lack of suitable helicopters means they have to supply their Afghan bases by road, which increases the risk of attack by militants. The new helicopters must be able to either transport 30 soldiers with equipment or carry an external load of 5.4 tonnes in temperatures of 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) and at a height of 1,220 meters (4,000 feet). Source: Reuters Source: Real-Time Intelligence Center

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