Due to new requirements by the European Aviation Safety Agency the Slovenian Armed Forces had to consider the option of upgrading its outdated Bell 412 helicopters. Initially, the plan was to upgrade the existing helicopters, extending their life span by 10 to 15 years. However, following the extensive five year research which also involved external providers no reasonable solution was found. As a result, the Slovenian Ministry of Defence has decided to renew the fleet, purchasing new AW139 helicopters, in accordance with the Medium-Term Defence Programme of the Republic of Slovenia 2023–2028 with a view to modernise the Slovenian Armed Forces. The outdated Bell 412 would be replaced by the new AW139 by 2026, with the aim of providing aircrew safety and operational readiness. New modern technology, operational integration, and risk management are the prerequisites for an efficient integration of the new helicopter type. The thesis presents a comparative analysis of the capabilities of both helicopter types, safety risks, and operational challenges, including the necessary aircrew training and the adjustment of logistics and maintenance.
The comprehensive analysis addresses technical specifications, operational capabilities, and ergonomics, aiming to identify the key factors affecting the efficient integration of the new helicopter type. The development of aircrew training, human factor analysis, and drafting of safety strategy programmes are essential for ensuring safety and efficiency of the new helicopters in the Slovenian Armed Forces.
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