Monday, October 10, 2011

$30m Tiger down not a problem, says Defence. Darwin, Australia.

Safe landing: The Tiger helicopter sits in a paddock on the outskirts of Darwin. 
Photo Credit:  ABC

The Defence Department has ruled out problems with its new Tiger helicopters, after one was forced to make an emergency landing in Darwin's rural area last night.

The $30 million armed reconnaissance helicopter was taking part in a night-training exercise when its windscreen cracked.

The pilot was forced to land the aircraft in a paddock at Lambells Lagoon.

First Aviation Regiment commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel John Fenwick says the windscreen will be repaired.

"This is an isolated incident," he said.

"There is no need or reason to suggest that this is broader than just this aircraft at this stage.

"Certainly (there is) no need to suggest that all the other aircraft are imminently affected and affects safety for everyone."

Northern Territory Police say they were alerted to the incident when a woman called emergency services when she saw the helicopter flying at a low altitude above her property last night.

The Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra also received a distress signal.

The army is conducting a series of night-training exercises in the Top End, using up to four helicopters at a time.

Until recently, its Tiger helicopters were confined to daytime operations because of a lack of night-vision equipment.

http://www.abc.net.au

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