Wednesday
August 1, 2001
Thailand orders Super Lynx
Yeovil, UK ( GKN-Westland Press Release ) -
The Royal Thai Navy has today ordered two Super Lynx Series 300 Maritime helicopters in a contract worth some £25 Million including integrated logistic support and services. A significant element of the contract is an obligation on the part of Westland Helicopters to undertake countertrade of Thai products, to the value of 50% of the contract price.
In 1998, Westland Helicopters launched the Super Lynx 300 programme representing a new generation of the Lynx. As part of its commitment to this company funded programme, Westland built a demonstrator aircraft to assist in the remaining development and testing. Super Lynx 300 incorporates an all new integrated glass cockpit and the more powerful CTS800-4N engines jointly developed by Rolls Royce and Honeywell. The T800 matches Super Lynx's increased operational demands with a newer, more powerful Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC) controlled engine that delivers low maintenance, enhance performance and excellent economy.
Alan Johnston, Westland Helicopters' Managing Director, welcomed the news, as Thailand's choice further reinforced the investment in Lynx 300. "Over 120 Super Lynx aircraft have been ordered by seven customers around the world and Lynx continues to be seen by operators as the best aircraft in its class. We have kept the aircraft in step with users' changing requirements and the investment placed in the Super Lynx 300 programme emphasises AgustaWestland's commitment to maintain the lead position of Lynx in world markets."
The aircraft is planned to operate from four Royal Thai Navy frigates and Offshore Patrol Vessels. The Super Lynx 300 will meet the Royal Thai Navy's roles of antisubmarine warfare and surface surveillance.
AgustaWestland sees this contract as the beginning of a long-term relationship with the Royal Thai Navy. More than 400 Lynx have been sold worldwide and the Royal Thai Navy will be the twelfth navy to have Lynx in operational service.
Westland timeline
Agusta timeline