The Army’s capability in the Northern Territory has received a significant boost with the recent arrival of the first three Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters - or “Tigers” as they are commonly known - to be based in Darwin.

The Tiger is one of the most technologically advanced helicopters of its type in the world. It is software driven, and constructed using 80 per cent composite materials which give it remarkable stealth characteristics.

The Minister for Defence, the Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon MP, said the Tigers are a major step forward for the Army’s capability, and will provide the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with highly capable sensors for day and night reconnaissance and surveillance operations, communication and networking capabilities, and a formidable weapon system including the Hellfire precision guided missile system and a 30 millimetre chin mounted gun turret.

“It is fair to say that our troops in the north have never had any equipment like this before, and it is a credit to the ADF and industry based in Darwin that they can support such an advanced capability,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

A total of 22 Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters will be delivered to the ADF for $1.2 billion under Project AIR 87. All except the first four helicopters will be assembled in Australia.