Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/773724
2022 the procurement program for new helicopters would include at least 50 units. The first of those helicopters will be delivered in 2018, which is contrary to declarations stated on 10 October. Various types of helicopters are planned for purchase, which indicates a distribution of orders among multiple manufacturers with manufacturing plants in Poland or abroad, since the purchased helicopters might also include attack helicopters acquired as a part of the „KRUK" (Raven) program to replace the combat Mi-24D/W in land forces aviation units. On 28 October, it appeared that none of the past bidders had withdrawn from doing business with the MoD. This time, on the basis of gathered information, it might be assumed that policymakers abandoned the concept of a common helicopter platform and replaced it with an idea of specialized types for specific tasks – the situation described above may provoke another strategic disaster (similarly, for example, to the fleet of vehicles and trucks) within Polish Army. However, it might enable the purchase without unnecessary compromises arising from the fixed idea of common platform. For the first time, however, some confusion appeared in the news – deliveries from the urgent operational requirement phase will start most probably in 2017.. That would not be a problem, since the plant PZL Mielec has several units in stock. They were built before conclusion of the contracts. Lack of new helicopters is becoming a pressing Aviation Brigade that needs new SAR the old Mi-14PL/R and would be complementary – Photo: Łukasz Pacholski www.fragoutmag.com