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Originally Posted by Ucar
The current agreement with AugustaWestland is for 50+1 T-129 units to be procured for Turkish Armed Forces. There is another 40 on option for further negotiations. The figure 150 provided below is misleading.
A-129 has not been combat tested, and T-129 has not flown yet (Yes correct). With less engine power, and weapon load than AH-64, we are yet to see its effectiveness in the hot and high terrain conditions of SE Turkey. I disagree. The T-129 will not use the engine currently used by the A-129. The T-129 will use two LHTEC T800 engines which was designed for the Comache program. This will give the T-129 20% more hovering altitude. The T-129 will be more agile. Also don't forget the AH-64 was desiged with Cold-war mentality....There was no asymetric threats being taken into consideration. Turkey needs something which is multi-role, more agile and can be used in tight valleys such as those found in northern iraq against terrorist targets. The extensive use of composites in the T-129 will also make it significantly lighter. My personal opinion is that the T-129 needs to be compared to the AH-1, not the AH-64.
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My superiors and the US Navy does not say so.....
Heres what the US Navy says:
“TURKEY’S RESPONSE TO THREATS OF WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION”
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In April of 1996, the Turkish military announced a 30-year $150 billion coproduction deal with foreign partners. The program includes plans for the acquisition of 640 combat aircraft, 750 helicopters and the purchase of four airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft for delivery by 2003. The building of 24 additional F-16 fighters and modernizing and upgrading of seven tanker aircraft, donated by the USA are also among the procurement plans.
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Also do not forget the initial Bell order (which was cancelled) was for 145 Attack helis! See
Attack Helicopter Sale
Journal of Turkish Defense News ATAK Scanner News
The Turkish Land Forces has approved plans to acquire AT LEAST 145. Also, please look at "Vision 2005" (Visyon 2005)- the Turkish Government document outlining defence procurement plans for this century.