Circa i problemi che affliggono la versione navale, e alle azioni intraprese per superarli, ho trovato questo articolo .... risalente però giusto al Salone di due anni fa ....
Quota
In order to resolve technical problems and also meet customer demand for delivery of NFH aircraft this year, Vaccari says a stepped approach has been proposed to the nations via the NATO Helicopter Management Agency. "The formal acceptance of this approach was obtained in 2008 from the Dutch and French navies. Discussions are ongoing with the Italian navy, linked to General Electric T700 engines and transmission upgrade tests for a maximum gross weight qualification at 11t, in addition to full vessel-embarked capabilities." However, the Italian navy still expects to take deliveries of a fully capable version only from 2011.
In addition to platform features which will enable it to operate from naval vessels in high sea states, the basic NFH version is equipped with a surface search radar, forward-looking infrared/electro-optical sensor turret and electronic support measures. Its dipping sonar and acoustic sonobuoys will be managed using an integrated acoustics processor package by one mission console operator.
Development of the NFH version has been hampered by undercarriage, platform weight, surface radar and tactical navigation system problems.
"Solutions have been identified for all issues, and final curing activities are on the way," says Vaccari. "A strengthened undercarriage has already been introduced, while the maximum gross take-off weight has been elevated from 10,600kg (23,400lb) to 11,000kg." In addition to a weight reduction programme, this margin has been maintained by augmenting the aircraft's engine, main and tail rotor revolutions per minute, he adds.
A French NFH90 powered by Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM 322-01/9 engines completed a test campaign in April at the new MTOW, while an Italian example powered by General Electric/Avio T700/T61E1s began activities in March. Final certification is planned for early 2010, according to Vaccari. Tactical navigation system improvements have already undergone flight evaluation, while a roadmap has been developed to resolve the ENR surface radar problem with a package of enhancements.
"According to the phased capabilities delivery plan, the Step A, or meaningful operational capability standard, which is to be qualified by autumn 2009, will have undercarriage, propulsion and dynamic complex improvements, as well as tactical navigation functionalities very near to the original FOC requirements, and an initial operational-capable surface radar," says Vaccari.
"The qualification target for the first naval version customer in the Step A configuration, the Royal Netherlands Navy, is planned for September this year, with first ready-for-acceptance delivery targeted for December," Vaccari says.
FULLY CAPABLE
In the Netherlands, flying activities are due to start next month and a new flight simulator to be available in Italy during 2011. "The French navy configuration is to complete certification in November, while Norway is to follow in February 2010," Vaccari says.
A Step B, or FOC-standard aircraft, with up-to-date tactical navigation equipment, is planned for qualification in mid-2011. Its fully capable surface radar to be available in the second half of 2012. Covering small target detection at short range and high sea states and obsolescence improvements, the latter modification programme is currently under approval.
Fonte ....
http://www.flightglo...k-on-track.html