Crew
Capacity Length Height Rotor diameter Empty weight Max takeoff weight Maximum speed Cruise speed Range Service ceiling Rate of climb Hovering in Ground Effect Armament |
1 or 2
1 (loadmaster) + 5 troops or 3,175 kg payload 11.45 metres 3.5 metres 12.96 metres 1,590 kg 2,850 kg 285 km/h in level flight 260 km/h 833 km (450 nmi) 6,096 metres 8.8 m/s 4,609 metres 1x 7.62mm General Purpose Machine Guns (optionally M134 Dillon) |
The AW109 K2 Trekker is the Army's specialist high altitude helicopter, delivering a specialist ability to airmobile units of the Mountain Legion. The helicopter offers an unusual capacity, providing for air movements and light air support.
These helicopters were initially designed to operate at high altitudes at adverse weather as SAR at the mountain line of the major alpine ranges. With a combined power of more than 1,500 BHP from two Arriel 1K1 engines, bearing the weight of a maximum of 2,850 kg they can perform in full load with one engine up to 16,000 ft of altitude (4,100 meters). The AW109 Trekker features a modular state-of-the-art glass cockpit including two large format 6” x 8” EFIS displays providing Primary Flight Display (PFD) and Multi-Function Display (MFD) information. The engines are equipped with dual-channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC), while protective air intake grids prevent ingestion of debris into the engines. The free turbine features blade shedding architecture for high levels of reliability and safety. Trekker's main gearbox is reinforced for compatibility with the increased turbine engine power and the increase in the helicopter’s maximum weight. An emergency lubrication spray is installed in the gearbox to allow a 30-minute flight with no oil. The aircraft is able to externally load up to 3,350 kg from the external sling load; this capability is limited at higher altitudes. The aircraft are equipped with side hoist systems, including a hoist of 204 kg lifting capacity and 50 meters long rope, which enable the doctor to reach the patient located in inaccessible terrain. If needed, the crew can use the winch of 500 kg lifting capacity for transportation of persons. The helicopter is powered by two PW206C turboshaft engines, each providing 418 kW of power. Each engine, complete with systems and accessories, is independent. An infrared suppression system is installed to reduce the thermal signature of the helicopter. The helicopter has fixed tricycle-type landing gear, which may be affixed with landing skis for snowy conditions. Emergency floatation units can be installed on the main landing gear fairings and on the forward section of the fuselage. The cabin of the aircraft can accomodate cargo, up to 7 passengers in crash strengthened seats, including a loadmaster. The crew consists of the pilot, copilot; loadmasters are a part of the crew unless maximum lifting capability is required. The loadmasters are charged with operating the two 7.62 general purpose machine guns directed to the port and starboard, or in the case of managing a rescue using the hoist system. |