Originally Posted by
Badengo
Ah so you've read the contract then? The start date wasn't for the start of SAR capability but training.
The fully operational machine will be over here within the next week or so, to coincide with the operational requirement start date.
The main holdups in this project has actually been AMSA not supplying crucial data like the size of stores etc until the very last minute. Cobham have met the requirements each step of the way. The aircraft was on time in Perth for AMSA crew training as stated in contract.
Cairns was always scheduled for Jan/Feb 2017.
Yep, pretty much full bottle on the contract, don't know what fairy tale your reading. As far as stores go, the RFT (that's request for tender) stated specifically that the selected aircraft will be capable of dropping the current array of stores. They even provided pictures and specifications - incidentally stating a maximum tested deployment speed of 160 kts-, also it should be noted that visual surveillance which is bread and butter SAR work, is to be done at 130 kts.
Everyone should take note that it appears Cobham are quick to blame their new client as being responsible for their in ability to meet contract imperatives.