Malta seeks Alouette replacement deal

Senior military sources have confirmed that work is underway to replace its current fleet of three Aerospatiale SA316 Alouette III helicopters, according to a contract solicitation released by the EU on 30 August.

MaltaToday is reliably informed that the AFM is interested in "acquiring up to three new aircraft" which will be intended to strengthen external border control missions.

The AFM has requested the EU to acquire the aircraft using money from the EU's External Borders Fund (EBF) programme.

A deal for the acquisition this year of one aircraft has already been reached, subject however, "to availability of funds from the EU Borders Fund programme 2012". An option for a second helicopter to be ordered in an identical configuration would also be contingent on securing EBF funds in 2013, the notice says.

The AFM will also consider acquiring another identical aircraft through the same funding route in 2014, with its request noting: "bidders have to guarantee the supply of the third helicopter until the year 2015 with a justifiable and reasonable price escalation not exceeding 5%".

Potential suppliers have been urged to respond to the request by October 30, while the AFM is also seeking associated training services and potentially an in-service support package for the new type.

Recently, the AFM acquired two Hawker Beechcraft King Air 200s configured for maritime patrol duties.