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Achieving Helicopter Modernization with Advanced Technology Turbine Engines

I. Introduction 
Military and commercial helicopter operators worldwide 
are faced with a common dilemma—when to replace 
existing fleets with newer, more capable, and yes, more 
expensive helicopters. Alternatively, how often and how 
much should they spend on upgrades. Either decision 
may be based on operational needs, operational support 
costs, or a combination of both. 
On a personal level, you go through a similar process 
when deciding to replace the family car with a new or 
used car. As long as the basic mission remains un- 
changed, such as the daily commute to and from work, 
and the vehicle is reliable and replacement parts are 
readily available, then you probably can't economically 
rationalize a new car. 
Automobile upgrades are virtually limitless as there are 
many sources for new engines, radios, security systems, 
power door locks, stereo systems, cruise controls, trailer 
hitches, and fog lights, among others. All of these options 
serve the same purpose: to make an existing car more 
functional or to extend its life. 
A replacement can be rationalized when repair costs 
become too expensive, you experience a major failure, 
the car is no longer reliable, fuel costs or fuel consump- 
tion become prohibitive, or there is no longer room for 
the growing family. 
Likewise, there are many examples where helicopter 
replacements are necessary in lieu of upgrades. Helicop- 
ter replacements are appropriate when the mission need 
and capability of the replacement is so compelling that 
upgrades to the existing system are Simply cost prohibi- 
tive and/or the desired performance is not achievable 
within the existing airframe structure. Crashworthiness, 
cargo volume, night/adverse weather capability, payload, 
range, speed, battle damage vulnerability, multi-engine 
requirements, and marinization, among many other 
considerations, might contribute to the replacement 
decision. 
A few examples of cost and mission effective replace- 
ment helicopters are listed in Figure l. The replacement 
of the CH-46 helicopter with the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor is 
the most compelling example of an extraordinary aircraft 
capability redefining an operational mission.