Heavy overhaul and upgrade of Iranian helicopters

[IranDefence]

 

[Philosopher]

Iran's ability to overhaul helicopters from different nations ranging from the Russians systems to the Americans is truly impressive. A few years ago, a Russian defence delegate visited one of these overhaul facilities and he was so impressed he told his Iranian counterpart that Iran could take over from the Russians in overhauling the Russians helicopter being fielded by regional states. I am positive in the long term, most if not all of these helicopters will replaced by Iranian designed helicopters, this will greatly reduce the "overhaul burden" on our defence sector. Even under these severe sanctions and the relatively low budget going to this area, Iran has still designed and manufactured its helicopters, just imagine what would happen if more attention is given to this sector in the future.

 

[hussainb72]

Iran's ability to overhaul helicopters from different nations ranging from the Russians systems to the Americans is truly impressive. A few years ago, a Russian defence delegate visited one of these overhaul facilities and he was so impressed he told his Iranian counterpart that Iran could take over from the Russians in overhauling the Russians helicopter being fielded by regional states. I am positive in the long term, most of not all of these helicopters will replaced by Iranian designed helicopters, this will greatly reduce the "overhaul burden" on our defence sector. Even these severe sanctions and the relatively low budget going to this sector, Iran has still designed and manufactured its helicopters, just imagine what would happen if more attention is given to this sector in the future.

Iran has heavily improved in the helicopter industry. They can basically create air frames of almost every single helicopter they have in service, they can easily repair the engines, they have created advanced avionics that can be used in such helicopters, they have special EO/IR sensors that can be mounted on all their helicopters, and much other stuff.

But the sad thing is that some of these equipment built by iran are never used in numbers, especially organisations other than the military and IRGC.
For example iran made the Saba 248 multi role helicopter.

So instead of actually using this helicopter for roles such as SAR and as an aerial ambulance, the government decides to buy a bunch of EC 145 helicopters. The question is why doesnt the government use such iranian made platforms and instead pays foreign companies and imports helicopters. The Saba 248 can easily compete with the EC 145 in the global market and actually have some customers if there arent any sanctions.

Also regarding other platforms, I think the AH 85 or the Shahed 285. This platform has alot of potential as an armed scout helicopter, but needs 1 important change, which is equipping it with ane EO/IR sensor instead of the chin mounted gun. It can basically perform in the same way as the Kiowa helicopter.

Also iran should consider upgrading all its AH-1 helicopters to at least the toophan standard. Because that will greatly increase their performance and survivability. Iran should also add a data link system that allows the helicopters to use drones to scout ahead, which would allow them to just peak, shoot and get back to cover without being shot at.

Also there was this other heavy attack helicopter being developed by iran. Is there any news about it?
And also I think I read that iran has made laser guided rockets. Is that true? Because laser guided 2.75 inch rockets can greatly increase the attack capabilities of the helicopters, especially helicopters like the Shahed 285.

 

[Philosopher]

Iran has heavily improved in the helicopter industry. They can basically create air frames of almost every single helicopter they have in service, they can easily repair the engines, they have created advanced avionics that can be used in such helicopters, they have special EO/IR sensors that can be mounted on all their helicopters, and much other stuff.

But the sad thing is that some of these equipment built by iran are never used in numbers, especially organisations other than the military and IRGC.
For example iran made the Saba 248 multi role helicopter.

Budgetary restrictions will sadly lead to the limited quantity of the systems. Having said that, just today it was reported Iran will mass produce the Saba helicopter:

Iran to mass produce Saba helicopter​

TEHRAN, Jun. 07 (MNA) – Second Brigadier General Afshin Khajeh Fard, head of Iran Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO), said that the Islamic Republic seeks to mass-produce Saba helicopter in 2020.

He made the remarks on Sunday, noting that Iran Aviation Industries is making great progress by relying on its experts and the capacity of the Armed Forces and the knowledge-based companies.

“Iran’s Helicopter Support and Renovation Company is capable to upgrade and equip all helicopters of the Armed Forces along with those utilized for firefighting and rescue operations with advance systems,” he emphasized.

He further noted that due to taking necessary measures, manufacturing spare parts for the helicopter fleet of the country currently takes less time.

Referring to the knowledge of Iranian experts on designing and upgrading aviation systems, he said, “Experts in the Iran Aviation Industries Organization are working around the clock to mass-produce Saba helicopter in the near future.”

https://en.mehrnews.com/news/159536/Iran-to-mass-produce-Saba-helicopter-official


What was important is the development of the underlying necessary capabilities to design and manufacture helicopters if needed, and that has been accomplished. Once Iran's needs dictate the production of such systems, then they will be given the necessary focus and budget.