Austria to modernize AB-212 helicopters with latest technologies

The Austrian Army will bring its entire fleet of AB-212 helicopters to the cutting edge of technology. This will entail the replacement of the avionics systems and the improvement of night vision and defensive capabilities of the helicopters. Investment in the Force: "The helicopter will thus remain fully operational for another 25 years, or about 100,000 flight hours," Defence Minister Norbert Darabos said today at the Vienna Maria Theresia barracks. The investment amount is approximately 63 million euros. "This investment shows that we are investing step by step in equipping the troops and thus in the protection of our soldiers," Darabos said. Backbone of the air transport: The AB-212 helicopters are the backbone of military air transport, which is an essential component of the Austrian Army. The fleet consists of 23 helicopters and 50 pilots. It is stationed in Linz-Hörsching. So far a total of 115,000 flight hours have been completed. Part of the fleet remains available: The modernization of the aircraft will begin in June 2010 and will be completed within four years. A maximum of six helicopters will simultaneously be modified by the Rome-based firm AgustaWestland, so that part of the fleet is still available at all times.