Based in London, Tony covers European defense programs. Prior to joining Aviation Week in November 2012, Tony was at Shephard Media Group where he was deputy editor for Rotorhub and Defence Helicopter magazines. Tony has covered avionics, unmanned vehicles, the supply chain and cyberwarfare.
LONDON — The Italian army has unveiled plans to deploy its AgustaWestland AW129 Mangusta attack helicopters at sea. In a move that follows in the footsteps of several European countries, the army wants to be able to operate the Mangusta from the decks of Italian naval vessels — such as the flagship Cavour-class aircraft carrier — and provide “power projection from the sea.”
London – The U.K. Royal Air Force ( RAF ) will soon deploy the first of its upgraded Chinook helicopters to Afghanistan. Two Boeing CH-47 Chinook HC4s were ready to go at the RAF’s main transport base at Brize Norton on Nov. 19, and are likely to begin operational flying in theater from the main British base at Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, in December. The two aircraft will join the Joint Helicopter Force ( Afghanistan ) supporting the International Security and Assistance Force troops.
