( © Helibras/Marcio Jumpei ) Airbus Helicopter's Brazilian subsidiary Helibras will deliver the first two upgraded AS365 Panther K...
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| (© Helibras/Marcio Jumpei) |
Airbus Helicopter's Brazilian subsidiary Helibras will deliver the first two upgraded AS365 Panther K2 helicopter this month to the Brazilian Army Aviation Command.
The upgrade features, new Turbomeca Arriel 2C2CG engines that deliver 40 percent more power, new engine fairings, a new glass cockpit with a 4-axis autopilot, new wiring and a cable-cutting device.
In addition to night vision goggle-compatibility, the helicopter also features a new altimeter and weather radar, the latest navigation and communication radios and a new tail rotor – significantly improving performance and safety.
These changes provide a helicopter with greater range, more speed and reduced pilot workload.
The two helicopters will be trialed, if successful, Helibras will continue modernizing the remaining 32 AS365 K Panthers in the Brazilian Army’s inventory through 2021. The upgrade will increase its operational life by 25 years.
The Panther K2 has capacity for one or two pilots and 10 troops, a maximum takeoff weight of 4300 kg, and a top speed of 175 kts., which is increased from 150 kts. prior to its upgrade.
Panther K2 is the first helicopter to be fully certified in Brazil’s Aerospace Technology and Science Department (DCTA). Helibras was responsible for the Panther K2’s preliminary and detailed designs for the enhancement.
