Options Range From Minor Enhancement To Major Airframe And Engine Upgrades

Vector Aerospace Helicopter Services-North America, said at Heli-Expo last week that it has launched a unique UH-1H helicopter upgrade program which they say is ready for delivery to operators around the globe.

Vector's customizable UH-1 upgrade program addresses a wide variety of operator-relevant issues; from minor system enhancements to larger scale solutions that deliver appreciable increases in aircraft performance and addresses major obsolescence issues. "Options available range from operational and logistics support such as maintenance and overhaul planning, up to a complete range of airframe, engine and avionics solutions; made available in scalable packages that are flexible enough to fit practically any operator's needs," explains Phil Kemp, Vector's vice-president of airframe and avionics sales.

Kemp continues, identifying key UH-1 upgrades that will be of interest to UH-1 operators, including two engine upgrades (installation of the Honeywell T-703 or the PT6T-67D; providing gross weight increase and significant "hot and high" operational capability), as well as the industry-leading BLR FastFin with Vector Supplemental Type-Certificated options for a tractor-style tail rotor and tail boom assembly.  Additional upgrades available with the Vector UH-1 program include customizable night vision-compatible glass cockpit solutions and airframe repairs and rebuilds, to complete rewires and avionics suites; all designed for total customization in addressing the operator's mission requirement and budget.

The goal of Vector's new UH-1 program is to provide operators with a scalable upgrade solution rather than providing an "all or nothing" scenario. The program addresses a variety of recurring obsolescence and support challenges associated with legacy mechanical, electrical and avionics systems. This enables operators to reduce costly trouble-shooting activity, and refocus on performing routine maintenance to improve aircraft availability and safely and efficiently meet mission requirements.

"With Vector's unique, customer-driven approach to the UH-1 upgrade, operators have the opportunity to select a basic upgrade package and then add to and customize that package. Operators now have the option to choose a less significant degree of modification to meet their desired performance objective, and periodically embody additional performance enhancing upgrades to meet their operational requirements and budgets."

FMI: www.vectoraerospace.com