New upgraded Nuri helicopter has lifespan until 15 years

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Sikorsky S61A-4 Nuri helicopter that had been upgraded will have new capabilities and lifespan (supportability) lasting 15 years.

Chief Executive Officer of AIROD Sdn Bhd Major-General Datuk Ibrahim Bahari said this upgrade had improved the aircraft's Instrument Flight Rule capability, allowing the aircraft to fly during day and night in all weather conditions.

"Additional capabilities include enhanced safety features and tactical capabilities and standardisation of aircraft system across the fleet and deals with obsolescence issue," he said.

Ibrahim was met by reporters after handing over Sikorsky S614-A Nuri to the RMAF Chief, Datuk Seri Affendi Buang, witnessed by Minister of Defence Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein here today.

The upgrading process was carried out at AIROD's Subang Facility involving the transfer of technology from its technical partner Heli-One Norway, and it was completed within a short time frame of only 11 months from the design to flight test. -- Bernama