Taking time off from a 100-hour flight test program in Romania, the prototype of an armed, upgraded Aerospatiale Puma is making its debut at the Farnborough show. Converted by IAR Brasov in collaboration with Israel's Elbit, the helicopter is the first of 24 which will be delivered to the Romanian Air Force.

Although shown at Paris last year in a semi-converted state, the helicopter was not then fitted with its Anti-Tank Optronic Search and Combat (SOCAT) system. Maiden flight in fully converted state took place on May 24, since when it has been involved in flight envelope expansion.

SOCAT modifications involve fitment of an integrated mission management system (Elbit helicopter multi-role computer and Mil-1553B databus), digital avionics and sensors, and a new weapons system. There are: HOCAS (hands on collective and stick) controls; a cockpit compatible with night vision goggles with one color and a pair of monochrome multifunction screens; and provision for an Elbit pilot's helmet sight.

External changes begin at the nose with a turret containing a laser range-finder, forward-looking infrared and CCD TV. There are also chaff/flare dispensers, a laser warning receiver and radar warning as part of the Elisra defensive aids suite. The crew has an Elbit color moving map display, Honeywell embedded GPS/INS and a GEC-Marconi helicopter air data system.

Beneath the nose, the SOCAT Puma carries a turret for a GIAT THL-20 20mm cannon. Two pylons mounted on the fuselage sides to the rear of the cabin door are fitted with pods for 57mm or 80mm rockets, anti-tank missiles and air-to-air missiles. It is to trials of the last two that the second prototype will be dedicated when it makes its first flight shortly although, as yet, no decision has been announced on the types of weapon to be obtained.

From 150 SA-330L Pumas built under license by IAR, 24 will be upgraded for service until at least 2015 under the terms of a $100 million contract placed with IAR and Elbit in 1996. Three more are due to have been handed over before the end of this year to begin Romanian Air Force pilot training. The upgrade will give the Romanians the ability to conduct helicopter ground attack, escort, anti-armor and armed reconnaissance missions, the latter including real-time transmission of data to ground stations and other airborne helicopters.

Although the first generation Puma has long been overshadowed by the Eurocopter Super Puma/Cougar, the far-reaching enhancement seen at Farnborough this week will go a long way towards prolonging the front-line life of this aging feline.

By Paul Jackson