RMAF to Start Using Eurocopter's Simulator from 2013

02 November 2012

EC-225/725 ful-flight simulator (photo : Malaysian Defence)

Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) helicopter pilots are set to start operating Eurocopter Malaysia's (ECM) newly developed EC225/EC725 full-flight simulator (FFS) from early 2013.

The simulator has successfully completed certification tests by the European Aviation Safety Agency and Malaysia's Department of Civil Aviation, and is currently being assembled at the new Eurocopter Malaysia Simulation Centre (EMSC), located at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Selangor.

The FFS training is designed to enhance helicopter safety by improving and maintaining the skill level of pilots and crew, while reducing customers' training costs, according to a statement by the company.

Eurocopter Malaysia president/chief executive officer Pierre Rossignol told Bernama News Agency that the country will serve as an ideal destination for the FFS establishment in Asia, in wake of impending deliveries of the RMAF's EC725 helicopters fleet.

"The simulator in Malaysia will be Eurocopter's 20th in the world and reflects the company's strong commitment to develop its support and services in Asia," Rossignol added.

The simulator is scheduled to provide operator training to both RMAF's and civilian pilots in the Asia Pacific.

A total of 12 EC725 Super Cougar helicopters were ordered by the RMAF in 2010 to help replace its Sikorsky-built S-61A-4 Nuri helicopter fleet, which is used for conducting search and rescue operations.

The first helicopter is expected to be handed over in December 2012, while the remaining deliveries are scheduled to complete by January 2014.

A derivative of Eurocopter's AS 532 Cougar, the EC725 is a long-range tactical transport helicopter designed for troop transport, casualty evacuation, combat search and rescue, maritime surveillance, humanitarian support, medical evacuation and shipborne missions.

(AirforceTechnology)