Agusta A106
The Agusta A.106 was a small single-seat helicopter UAW.
History
The anti-submarine helicopter was developed due to the demand of the Italian Navy for a helicopter model that could also come from smaller vessels such as frigates with their cramped space used. Here, two Mk- 44 torpedoes should be run in addition to the radiolocation. For the submarine tracking and hunting had to be possible to use in bad weather conditions. Agusta could rely for the development on the experience of light helicopters A.103, A.104 and A.105.
The prototype first flew in November 1965. Production for the Italian Navy began in 1968. Were ordered two prototypes and five series helicopters, the latter was canceled in 1973.
In addition to the submarine combat A106 was able to close air support, with appropriate armament, are used in the army, were added light transport duties.
Description
The A106 is a small, single-seat helicopter tail rotor design. A shaft turbine with 220 kW of type Turbomeca - Agusta TAA 230 drove a two-blade main and a two-blade tail rotor. The light metal rotor blades could be pivoted to. The electronic stabilization system came from Ferranti and enabled the hover even in difficult weather conditions, an important prerequisite for the UAW - use. The standard skid landing gear could be replaced by a wheeled chassis. There were Notschwimmkörper. The two MK -44 torpedoes were mounted between the skids under the fuselage. Fuel could be additionally carried externally.