In 2005, Australia ordered 12 aircraft to replace its aging fleet of Army UH-1 Iroquois helicopters. In June 2006, the Australian Defence Force announced plans to replace its UH-60 Black Hawk and Westland Sea King helicopters; a further 34 NH90s were ordered, for an ordered total of 46; four being manufactured in Europe, and 42 being manufactured locally by Australian Aerospace (an Airbus Helicopters subsidiary) in Brisbane.
The type is designated MRH-90 Taipan, 'MRH' stands for Multi Role Helicopter. Six examples are operated by 808 Squadron of the Royal Australian Navy, which was reformed in 2011 and recommissioned in 2013. The other 40 are operated by the Australian Army.
These photos were taken at the Avalon 2011/12 Airshow held at Geelong, Victoria.
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