Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), Turkey’s centre of excellence in defence and aerospace industries, and Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) are planning to extend cooperation for the Kruk Combat Helicopter Procurement Programme of the Armament Inspectorate of Poland.
The proposed plan will see TAI supplying customised T129 ATAK multi-role combat helicopter for Poland’s Kruk programme.
TAI said in a statement: "TAI is ready to fine tune its combat proven T129 ATAK Helicopter platform to satisfy the specific requirements of the Polish end-user, through integrating distinguished Polish suppliers into its supply chain."
TAI and PGZ are considering collaboration with 15 Polish companies for the indigenising programme.
The Kruk (Raven) attack helicopter acquisition programme is aimed at enhancing the military capabilities of the Polish forces.
The programme will see Poland acquiring at least 32 modern helicopters to replace its Mil Mi-24D/W helicopters, reported Aviation Today.
The T129 is a twin engine multi role attack helicopter is capable of performing execute a range of missions, including combat, armed reconnaissance, armed escort, deep strike, fire support, precision strike, security and suppression of enemy air defences. It can operate in both day and night conditions.
Powered by two LHTEC T800-4A turboshaft engines, the T129 aircraft is based on its predecessor A129 Mangusta platform from AgustaWestland.
Last month, Polish Deputy Defence Minister Bartosz Kownacki was quoted by Reuters as saying an agreement to buy $3bn worth of helicopters from Airbus may not be reached.
Image: TAI will supply customised T129 ATAK multi-role combat helicopter for Poland’s KRUK programme. Photo: © 2016 Turkish Aerospace Industries.
