MIN 21/97 Friday, January 17, 1997

NEW HELICOPTERS FOR ANZAC SHIPS

The Minister for Defence, Mr Ian McLachlan, announced today that Kaman Aerospace International has been selected as the preferred tenderer to supply 11 helicopters for Australia's new ANZAC frigates.

The selected helicopter, the Kaman Super Sea Sprite, is a multi-purpose helicopter designed to operate from the ANZAC frigate as well as other Australian Naval vessels.

"The total value of the contract is yet to be determined due to continuing negotiations," Mr McLachlan said.

"Kaman was assessed as offering the best all round proposal for meeting Defence's demanding requirements with its Sea Sprite/ Penguin combination of sensor and weapon systems as well as support through the life of the helicopter."

The primary role of the helicopter will be to increase the combat effectiveness of the ANZAC frigate by providing over-the-horizon surveillance and targeting ability. The helicopter will also be fitted with the advanced Norwegian 'Konsberg Penguin' anti-ship missile.

The production of the helicopters, including the integration of avionics, sensor and weapons suite will be carried out partly in the United States and partly in Australia.

"Australian industry will be significantly involved in the acquisition phase," Mr McLachlan said. "The bulk of the work done in Australia will be associated with integrating the helicopter's weapons systems, designing the helicopter flight simulator and creating a software support centre. As well, Australian industry will substantially participate in through life support of the helicopters."

The helicopters are planned to start being introduced into service early next century. Further orders of the helicopter will be considered to take account of possible future needs and to support the prospective Offshore Patrol Combatant.

Further information:

Ministerial	Jim Bonner	0419 438 490
Departmental	Captain Brian Rowe	(06) 2664980