Australian Tigers. How Tiger helicopters could strengthen Ukraine’s air defense

Ukraine could soon receive combat Tiger helicopters formerly operated by the Australian Defence Force. While Canberra considers the request, we have compiled the aircraft’s specifications and analyzed its strengths and weaknesses.Will the Australian helicopters be delivered to the Ukrainian Armed Forces?Australia considers Ukraine's request for the transfer of a fleet of Tiger ARH attack and reconnaissance helicopters. This is because Canberra is decommissioning them and switching to the AH-64E Apache.As ABC News writes, in parallel, the Australian authorities prepares a $95 million aid package for Kyiv, but the issue of helicopters will be agreed upon separately. The final decision will be made by the government of the partner country.Read alsoUkraine may receive about 100 Rafale aircraft. How does this "bird" work?The fleet of 22 Tiger helicopters, which entered service in 2004, is to be fully decommissioned by 2028. Representatives of the Australian Ministry of Defence noted that the process could be accelerated.The European aircraft manufacturing consortium Airbus, the developer of the Tiger ARH, stated that these helicopters are technically suitable at least until 2040.Tiger ARH: specificationsThe Tiger ARH is an Australian attack and reconnaissance helicopter. equipped It is powered by two MTR390 turboshaft engines and has a composite fuselage, which makes the machine lightweight and durable. The main body length is approximately 14 m, the rotor diameter is 13 m, and the maximum take-off weight is about 6 tons.The helicopter is armed with a 30 mm GIAT/DEFA M781 turret-mounted cannon, 70 mm unguided rockets, and also carries AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-surface anti-tank guided missiles mounted via an M299 launcher. Tiger ARH equipped It is equipped with modern cameras, sensors, and targeting systems, making it effective day and night, and in challenging conditions.Read alsoBallistics, a factory in Denmark, and a spaceport: plans of the management of Fire Point, which Mindich couldn't buyBlueSkyRotor Helicopter Database assertsThe Tiger ARH typically reaches speeds of approximately 278 km/h. Its maximum flight range depends on the amount of fuel it carries: with internal tanks, i.e., built into the fuselage, the helicopter can fly about 800 km. With external tanks, attached under the wings instead of some of the weaponry, the range increases to approximately 1,300 km.Benefits of the helicopters for Ukraine and potential challengesThe role of helicopters in the air defense system is constantly growing, reports "Militarnyi". In interception zones, they are capable of shooting down up to 40% of Shahed-type drones. Helicopters are mobile, react quickly to threats, and operate at low altitudes where ground-based air defense systems are less effective.It is known that Ukraine more often uses helicopters in missions against Russian drones. The equipment has demonstrated results during night and maneuverable interceptions. Therefore, Tigers can significantly strengthen Ukraine's counteraction to enemy drones.At the same time, the transfer of Tiger ARH helicopters will require not only military training but also the establishment of new logistics. It will be necessary to ensure the supply of unique spare parts, such as MTR390 engines, and specific ammunition, such as AGM-114 Hellfire missiles.For data According to the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO), the Tiger ARH program has faced low operational readiness for years. The helicopters were often grounded due to maintenance delays, a lack of spare parts, and the failure of individual systems. Reports noted that maintaining the Tiger is expensive and resource-intensive, particularly due to the complexity of its onboard equipment, engines, and weaponry.