Lynx helicopters upgraded for Afghanistan use
Lynx helicopters carry a crew of three and up to five passengers
An extra 10 Lynx helicopters are set to be upgraded and used in Afghanistan to support front-line troops, according to the Ministry of Defence.
The aircraft will get more powerful engines, increased firepower and advanced instrumentation.
It comes under a £41.8m contract with AgustaWestland, in Yeovil, Somerset.
Another 12 of the Army Air Corps Lynx, based at Dishforth, North Yorkshire, are now being upgraded with the first deploying to Afghanistan next month.
The helicopter, which carries a crew of three, as well as up to five passengers, will be used to protect convoys, move troops and carry out reconnaissance missions.
The Lynx has been used by British forces in Afghanistan since 2006, however until now the helicopters have only been able to fly during winter months.
Defence Equipment Minister Quentin Davies said the "improved version" of the Lynx helicopter "will greatly benefit our troops in Afghanistan".
He added: "The enhancements will allow it to perform in the extremes of climate and geography that characterise that theatre of operations."