Fuel bladders for the Korean helicopter programme

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology

ISSN: 0002-2667

Article publication date: 10 July 2007

68

Citation

(2007), "Fuel bladders for the Korean helicopter programme", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 79 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2007.12779dad.004

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited


Fuel bladders for the Korean helicopter programme

Fuel bladders for the Korean helicopter programme

GKN Aerospace is to design, develop and provide initial supply of advanced fuel bladders for the Republic of Korean Army (ROKA) helicopter, the KHP. This contract, awarded by Hanwha Corporation, has a value approaching $3.5m and is the culmination of a lengthy collaboration.

The fuel bladders will be manufactured using a GKN developed, MIL spec material, which is far more flexible than current materials. This flexibility eases and speeds installation and greatly reduces the potential for damage to the bladder during the installation process. The material is also lighter than current products and, critically, offers a faster self-sealing capability in the event of damage during helicopter operations.

Phase one of the contract involves completing the development activity which will be finalised this year, followed by testing and initial production during 2008. Phase two commences in 2009 with preparation and first assembly activities at Hanwha's facilities in Korea.

For further information, contact: GKN Aerospace, Tel: +44 (0)1983 283649

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