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Airbus awarded ARH Tiger extension

Airbus has been awarded an extension of the Australian Army’s Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) Tiger through-life support (TLS) contract by the Australian Department of Defence.

“Airbus is committed to ensuring the success of the Australian ARH Tiger fleet, and we have worked closely with the Australian Army and our industry partners to improve the fleet‘s performance over many years,” said Andrew Mathewson, Australia Pacific Managing, Airbus.

Airbus explains the two-seater ARH Tiger attack helicopter serves as a key asset for the Australian Army. It is expected to remain in service until the 2040s. Today, the fleet of 22 ARH Tiger has flown over 30,000 hours, deployed for day-and-night surveillance and fire-support missions.

The five-year TLS extension, until 2025, covering the ARH program includes:
• More extensive aircraft and component deeper maintenance;
• Operational maintenance of aircraft allocated to training;
• Aircrew and technician training including maintenance of training devices;
• Design services including OEM design incorporation;
• Systems and software development and testing;
• Complete parts support including MRO, purchasing, storage and distribution; and
• Technical publications; maintenance policy; and fleet management.

“I’m proud that more than 200 full time positions will remain in Australia to carry out this very important work supporting the Army Aviation Australia-wide, including the creation of apprenticeships in Darwin,” added Mathewson. “Moreover, our Airbus engineering capabilities continue to expand thanks to this contract, with key software and modifications being developed on Australian soil.”

Globally, 181 Tigers have been delivered to Australia, France, Germany and Spain, and have accumulated over 115,000 flight hours to date. The Tiger was deployed by the French Army in Afghanistan in 2009.