 |
|
The
Tiger prowling through the sky. Photos from ACDG
|
By
Pte John Wellfare
The
first of 22 Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters (ARH) arrived
in Australia recently, forming the first step in a new capability
for the ADF.
Manufactured
in France, all but four of the aircraft will be assembled in the
Australian Aerospace facility at Brisbane Airport.
Lt-Col
Leo O’Reilly with the Aviation Capability Development Group
(ACDG) said the Tiger would greatly enhance the lethality and
tempo of land operations through both armed reconnaissance and
attack roles.
“The
percentage of time spent in the reconnaissance and firepower roles
will depend on the type of operation and the phase of the operation,”
he said.
Lt-Col
O’Reilly said the Tiger could be configured in a number of
different ways to best suit the nature of the mission.
“When
configured for the firepower role, the aircraft will trade-off
fuel in order to carry a large quantity of ammunition.
“In
the recon role, the Tiger is likely to carry more fuel, increasing
endurance and sufficient ammunition for self-defence and to engage
high-value opportunity targets.
“Targets
can be engaged with either the 30mm turreted gun, 70mm unguided
rockets, or laser-guided Hellfire missiles.”
With
the first Tiger instructors undergoing flying training in France
and individual pilot training beginning at Oakey in mid-2005,
the day when soldiers will see the ARH passing overhead is fast
approaching.
According
to Lt-Col O’Reilly, that day will see a formidable capability
added to the ADF arsenal.
