Australia will sell five retired Westland Sea King helicopters to UK surplus equipment and component supplier Aerospace Logistics (ASL).

"Aerospace Logistics have over 30 years' experience as an international specialist in the supply, refurbishment, exchange, maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft parts," says minister for defence materiel Jason Clare.

He adds that the firm will use the five helicopters "to sustain and support capability of international military and search and rescue fleets".

The Sea King 50s were operated by the Royal Australian Navy until their retirement in December 2011 after 35 years of service. The type is being replaced by the NH Industries MRH90.

Canberra will retain a sixth Sea King for display at the Fleet Air Arm Museum in the town of Nowra, New South Wales.

Source: Flight International