Airbus Helicopters gets approval of new aircrew training system EC135 T2+ helicopter

The Australian Government formally approved a new Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS) from Airbus Helicopters, for the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Under the JP 9000 Phase 7 HATS project, a new joint helicopter training program for both Army and Navy aircrew will utilise some 15 EC135 T2+ helicopters, along with EC135 flight simulators and a new flight-deck equipped sea-going training vessel. Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) is the prime contractor for the new training system, partnered by Thales Australia which will supply the flight simulators. “The EC135 T2+ can be equipped with a full range of additional mission equipment and is similar to the multi-role and combat helicopters now in service with the ADF. This ensures a smooth transition for student pilots as they graduate from a training environment to Army and Navy frontline squadrons, including those equipped with new-generation Tiger ARH and MRH90 helicopters”,  says Peter Harris, Head of Sales – Australia Pacific.