French Army Aviation receives first Tiger HAD attack helicopter

The French Army Aviation has received the first of 36 Tiger multi-role attack helicopters retrofitted into the helicóptero de ataque y destrucción (HAD) version.

The Airbus Helicopters delivery follows a formal acceptance process with the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA).

More than 100 airframe modifications and 1,500 new parts will be installed as part of the conversion of Tiger from the hélicoptère d’appui et protection (HAP) to the HAD version

Powered by two new improved MTR 390 E engines, the HAD Tiger has an increased maximum take-off weight (MTOW).

The Tiger also features a new STRIX roof-mounted sight system with a laser designator that allows the Hellfire II air-to-ground missile to be fired.

French Army Aviation Command stated: “This retrofit is considered a priority for the French Army and will allow us to have a perfected weapon system and a homogenous fleet.

“The first HAD Tigers have been combat-proven since 2014 and have shown their wide range of capabilities daily in demanding theatres of operation.”

The Tiger HAD is capable of performing a variety of missions in adverse conditions, such as armed reconnaissance, air or ground escort, air-to-air combat, and ground firing support.

To date, the global Tiger fleet has recorded more than 92,000 flight hours.

The Tiger attack helicopter is currently in service with the armed forces in France, Germany, Spain and Australia.

It was used during operational deployments in Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, Libya and Mali.