STEPHEN TRIMBLE / WASHINGTON DC
Bell Helicopter has revived talks with Turkey on a potential order for AH-1Z KingCobra attack helicopters after a US Defence Acquisition Board decision to go ahead with low-rate initial production.
Discussions stalled last year over access to source code and performance guarantees. Turkish officials opened fresh negotiations with Israel Aircraft Industries and Kamov on a substitute order for Ka-50-2 Erdogan attack helicopters.
The AH-1Z's survival after a programme restructuring in May last year has paved the way for a new round of talks. Technology transfer concerns are expected to be overcome, but the third-generation forward-looking infrared targeting system is likely to be excluded.
Bell is offering Turkey a combination of direct and foreign military sales orders. The company is preparing a major marketing push for new H-1 attack and utility helicopter sales in Asia.
Source: Flight International