IPMS South Africa - Super Lynx Hand Over

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Super Lynx Hand Over

Written by Ettienne Kotze' - IPMS SA Media Group

Tuesday, 19 February 2008

Page 2 of 3

Some 420 Lynx helicopters have been supplied to date and operated by 15 countries around the world, with South Africa the latest operator. This means the four Mk64 variants in SA Navy/SAAF service are the most modern examples in the world. And also unique in some respects as many of the onboard systems as used on the Super Lynx 300 Mk64 are made in South Africa, e.g. the EOSS, Electronic Surveillance Systems, radio and communication suite etc. The day’s proceedings started with a performance by a combined Navy/SAAF band who entertained the guests. A 19 gun salute and a fly-past of 3 Lynx helicopters marked the arrival of the Dignitaries followed by the Minister of Defense inspecting the Guard of Honour. Lynx 194, flown by AgustaWestland test pilot Andy Raggett with Mark Holems (SAAF) as TACCO (tactical coordinator), gave a powerful display. Scripture reading and the prayer was followed by the ceremonial signing of the handover documents by the Minister of Defense, The Chief of the Air force, acting Chief of SA Navy, and a representative of AgustaWestland as well as Armscor.