Ukraine's hopes dashed as Australia set to scrap "problematic" MRH‑90 Taipan copters
Australia has publicly expressed its support for Ukraine in its current conflict. In recent months, Canberra has supplied numerous pieces of military equipment and weapons to the Ukrainian front line. However, the situation regarding the MRH-90 Taipan helicopters is less promising for Ukraine. As previously reported, a final decision has been made to scrap 45 retired MRH-90 Taipan units. Despite Australian authorities playing down the issue, Ukrainian news outlets are investigating it.
9:01 AM EST, January 16, 2024
Why the MRH-90 Taipan is not destined for Ukraine
Defence Express, a website specializing in military and war-related issues in Ukraine, has identified the main potential reasons why the MRH-90 Taipan helicopters cannot be sent to the Ukrainian front line.
Primarily, it states that the scrapping process had already begun before Ukraine made its formal request. The company that has a contract with the Australian government for this task will dismantle the helicopters gradually, likely salvaging some spare parts. The Australian Air Force plans to retain a few of the decommissioned MRH-90 Taipans until they receive all the ordered UH-60M Black Hawks.
Problems with the Australian MRH-90 Taipan
Defence Express also notes that the MRH-90 Taipan was decommissioned by Australia due to a number of technical issues. An audit in 2014 revealed design defects, which prevented the helicopters from achieving full operational readiness.
Engine problems were later identified, and the last straw was a fatal crash in July 2023. An Australian MRH-90 Taipan helicopter crashed during an exercise, resulting in the death of four onboard soldiers.
Main features of the MRH-90 Taipan
The MRH-90 Taipan, an Australian variant of the European NH90, is a versatile helicopter. Equipped with twin engines (either Rolls-Royce Turboméca RTM322-01/9 or General Electric T700/T6E1) delivering over 4,000 hp, this helicopter weighs approximately 7.05 tons. It can carry two pilots and up to 20 passengers. A fully functional MRH-90 Taipan can reach a top speed of 186 mph and ascend to heights of 19,685 feet. Standard armaments include a .30 caliber machine gun, which can also carry air-to-ground and anti-ship missiles.
The Ukrainians have stated that their perspective on acquiring these helicopters is influenced by their current war. In other circumstances, transferring helicopters with questionable technical reliability could likely stir more controversy. The Australians are facing similar issues with their F/A-18 Hornet fighters. Discussions regarding the potential transfer of 14 units to Ukraine are ongoing.
