La Armada Argentina busca adquirir IA-63, C-295, y mas Super Etendard/Argentinian naval aviation command seeks Pampa deal

El jefe de la Armada Argentina ha revelado cuales son las necesidades básicas de aviación para su servicio, que incluye nuevos aviones de entrenamiento a reacción y aviones de ataque marítimo. La Armada vería con buenos ojos la adquisición de una versión naval del AT-63 Pampa, de los cuales necesitaría entre ocho y doce, para sustituir a los 10 Beech T-34C. No está previsto que pueda operar desde portaaviones.
Otra programa prioritario sería la compra de C-295 para sustituir a los dos Fokker F28 de transporte. Podrían adquirirse cinco helicópteros AS555SN, el cual ya es operado por la Armada Argentina, para sustituir a los SA316 Alouette III que se retirarán el año 2011.
También se va a modernizar los once Dassault Super Etendard, existiendo la opción de adquirir seis mas como sustitutos de modelos accidentados.
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The head of Argentina's naval aviation command has outlined the service's procurement plans, which include the acquisition of new jet trainers, transports and helicopters, plus improved maritime strike aircraft.
The service will prioritise the development of a "navalised" version of FAdeA's AT-63 Pampa. It requires between eight and 12 of the type to replace its 10 Beech T-34C trainers.
Local sources suggest that the new version of the Pampa would be a slight modification to the upgraded AT-63 being marketed to potential export customers Chile and Uruguay. Featuring an upgraded engine and improved avionics, it would have a reinforced landing gear, but would not be intended to operate from the deck of an aircraft carrier.
Another top priority is to replace the navy's remaining two Fokker F28 transports, studies are focused on Airbus Military's C-295.
Sources suggest that five or six Eurocopter AS555SNs could be bought to replace the navy's SA316 Alouette III helicopters, planned for retirement next year. The service already operates four AS555s.
The navy will meanwhile upgrade its remaining Dassault carrier strike aircraft to the French navy's Super Etendard Modernisé standard from next year, with the work to conclude by 2012-13. Argentina has 11 of the type in use.
Local sources suggest that negotiations are also under way to purchase a further six surplus French examples as attrition replacements.
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