Modern Warrior: Army re-examines future of Kiowa helicopter

摘要

U.S. Army aviation advocates began development work on a long list of enhancements for the sensor-equipped Kiowa Warrior helicopters last year following cancellation of the Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter program in 2008. Installation of a new camera could fix a shortcoming discovered with the Kiowas in Iraq and Afghanistan, Army officials said. Other improvements would include new landing gear, digital engine controls and fully digital cockpits to make the aircraft lighter, easier to fly and more fuel efficient. Now, however, the status of the OH-58D Kiowa fleet is an open question because of an analysis of alternatives started in January by the Army's Training and Doctrine Command, which is examining when the Army might restart work on a Kiowa replacement and what role unmanned aircraft might play in such a plan. Army aviation officials expect to receive a preliminary look at the study's findings in April or May.