Page 39 - HeliOps Frontline Issue 26

HELIOPS FRONTLINE / ISSUE 26 / 2019 39

Apache Longbow attack helicopter for the (6,000kg). The Wildcat is fitted with a nose
British Army Air Corps (AAC). The aircraft differ mounted MX-15 Wescam Electro Optical Device
from the AH-64D having the 2100shp Rolls- which can be used as a target designator for the
Royce Turbomeca RTM322 engines, the Selex ES Apache AH1. Its main armament is pintle-mounted
Helicopter Integrated Defensive Aids System general-purpose machine gun can be fitted and
(HIDAS) and a folding blade mechanism allowing the Wildcat is used for battlefield reconnaissance,
the British version to operate from ships. The AH1 troop transport and force protection roles.
is primarily operated in the armed reconnaissance Every exercise on this scale provides all the
and close air support roles and fitted with a assets involved the opportunity to implement, in
nose mounted M230 30mm chain gun delivering realistic scenarios, rotary and ground maneuvers
a rate of fire of 625 rounds per minute. The four that take advantage of the changing pace that
multipurpose stub wings can be fitted with helicopters can offer in a combat environment.
Hellfire air-to-surface missiles and 38 CRV-7 For a relatively young brigade this was the third
80mm rockets. major exercise since its formation and Baccarat
The AW159 Wildcat replaced the British AAC is a real test for all the participants it brought
Lynx Mk.7/8/9 aircraft and is operated by both the together. Airmobility is not unique to 4BAC
Royal Navy and British Army. It is powered by two but working with its European allies is an
1361shp Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company opportunity to develop tactics and learn mutually
(LHTEC) CTS800-4N turboshaft engines giving beneficial procedures that can be carried forward
the aircraft a max take-off weight of 13,228lb into the future. n