Its Bell versus Leonardo for Australia’s specops helicopter requirement

The Bell 429 GlobalRanger, which is being offered by Bell Helicopters for the Australian Army requirement.


Bell Helicopters and Leonardo have confirmed their participation to supply the Australian Army’s requirement under LAND 2097 program for helicopters for use in support of Special Operations units.

Bell will be offering the single-engined Bell 407 and twin-engined Bell 429 GlobalRanger, and will be working with Australia’s Hawker Pacific as prime contractor, and for providing aftersales support including maintenance, repair and overhaul requirements, as well as customization services.

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) already use the Bell 429 GlobalRanger, which could benefit Bell’s bid.

Meanwhile, Leonardo confirmed that they are offering three platforms, the AW109 Trekker, AW159 Wildcat, and AW169, all of which are twin-engine models and are of different helicopter classes.

The Australian Army is in need of at least 16 helicopters, with a Request for Information (RFI) released to manufacturers in late 2018.



[1] Jane’s Defence Industry
[2] Rotor & Wing International
[3] Defense News

Its Bell versus Leonardo for Australia’s specops helicopter requirement Its Bell versus Leonardo for Australia’s specops helicopter requirement Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal on March 01, 2019 Rating: 5

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