Raytheon tender for HATS competition submitted

Raytheon Australia announced that it has submitted its tender for the Air 9000 Phase 7 Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS) competition.

Managing director of Raytheon Australia, Michael Ward, said that the company’s team that included Bell Helicopter, Milskil, Nova Systems and Virtual Simulation Systems was pleased to present the Commonwealth with an offer to deliver and operate the HATS program as a trusted partner in rotary wing flying training.

“Our proposal outlines a mature, deliverable and sustainable training solution which maps precisely to the Commonwealth’s training requirements,” Ward said.

“Providing a strong growth path with the necessary flexibility for future training, we also offer the strongest commitment to safety and a solution which is designed for support through the best possible sustainment solution.

Raytheon Australia’s mission ready solution is centred around the Bell 429, offering a substantial capability enhancement for rotary wing flying training and light utility support.

In addition to being the only light twin helicopter fully certified to the latest crashworthiness standards, the large cockpit of the Bell 429 is capable of handling the full range of pilot candidates with the most spacious and useful rear cabin in its class.

Mr Ward also pointed to Raytheon’s strong pedigree in providing and supporting Australian helicopter programs such as the RAN’s Retention and Motivation Initiative as well as providing maintenance and engineering support under its Squirrel in service support contract.

This is added to the company’s extensive training pedigree that included Hornet and Super Hornet training systems, and its Electronic Warfare Training System.

He also said the Raytheon team offered a safe, certified and off-the-shelf solution to match training requirements and produce mission ready helicopter aircrew.