Britain's Billion-Pound Future Lynx Helicopter Program

In 2006, Finmeccanica subsidiary AgustaWestland received a GBP 1 billion (about $1.9 billion at 02/07 rates) contract from the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) for 70 Future Lynx helicopters. The Lynx is an extremely fast helicopter that entered service in the 1970s and has seen several versions and upgrades over the decades. Lynx helicopters have been used in a number of British Army [AH7 & AH9] and Fleet Air Arm [Mk 8] roles, from reconnaissance and attack to casualty evacuation & troop transport, logistical support, anti-submarine operations; and even command post functions.

The Future Lynx program reflects that. It will provide the British Army with 40 Battlefield Reconnaissance Helicopters (BRH), and the Royal Navy with 30 Surface Combatant Maritime Rotorcraft (SCMR). An option for an additional 10 aircraft can be split in any way desired.

This will become the DID FOCUS Article for the Future Lynx Program, describing its improvements, schedules, and related contracts. Per DID practice, the most recent items will be highlighted in green for reader convenience. The latest developments include the beginning of production…

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