QinetiQ, a leading science and engineering company operating in the defence, security and aerospace markets has signed an agreement for four Airbus H125 helicopters as part of its modernisation of the Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS), which it manages alongside the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MOD).
Airbus Helicopters’ UK design team will upgrade the Garmin G500-equipped aircraft with, among other capabilities, a 3-axis autopilot, dedicated communications equipment and Traffic Awareness Systems. This is in addition to a Flight Test Instrumentation suite, which is used to analysis and evaluate aircraft design and performance.
The deal includes aircraft modification and 10 years’ full HCare support. The aircrafts are expected to enter service in early 2019.
John Anderson, managing director Air & Space, QinetiQ commented, “We and the MOD are investing £85m in ETPS under our strategy to modernise the UK’s Test Aircrew Training capability. Assembling a fleet that provides the very best value and performance is vital to this strategy and the H125 will play a leading role. It’s an exciting time at ETPS, not just for us, but for our customers, who can look forward to improved programmes, delivered in more flexible way, using cutting edge aircraft.”
Colin James, UK managing director, Airbus Helicopters stated, “As one of the world’s ‘Big Four’ test pilot schools, it is hugely encouraging to think that for many years to come, all ETPS helicopter test pilots and flight test engineers will train on Airbus aircraft. With this deal Airbus Helicopters is committed to providing long-term support to help make future ETPS helicopter training a success.”
The purchase of the H125s is part of QinetiQ’s £1 billion deal with the MOD, signed in December 2016, to modernise the UK’s test aircrew training and air range capabilities. As part of the contract, QinetiQ is investing £85m in ETPS to lessen operating costs, improve capabilities and drive future expansion.
