Leonardo and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) have recently signed a significant contract for additional MCH-101 naval helicopters, strengthening the fleet of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). The contract also marks the commencement of a mid-life update (MLU) program for the MCH-101 in Japan. As a license-built version of the Leonardo AW101 helicopter, the MCH-101 has proven its capabilities over the years and continues to play a crucial role in Japan’s defense operations.
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海上自衛隊, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The JMSDF currently operates ten MCH-101 helicopters for mine countermeasure and transportation missions, alongside three CH-101 helicopters utilized for utility transport, specifically supporting Japan’s Antarctic research endeavors. The utilization of the MCH-101 and CH-101 helicopters ensures fleet commonality and seamless integration within the JMSDF operations.
To enhance the operational effectiveness of the JMSDF, the mid-life update program was initiated this year. This program will involve updating a batch of aircraft to the latest avionics configuration for the MCH-101, aligning it with the configuration of the new helicopters. These enhancements will enable the JMSDF to further elevate its operational capabilities.
The partnership between Leonardo, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Marubeni Aerospace Corporation has spanned two decades and has been instrumental in the development and success of the MCH-101. As the prime contractor, KHI has worked closely with Leonardo, which provides essential technical support for the platform. Marubeni Aerospace Corporation acts as Leonardo’s distributor, responsible for spares, ground support equipment, and services.
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, expressed pride in the enduring partnership with Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Marubeni Aerospace, highlighting the AW101’s vital role in Japan’s defense and its exceptional capabilities recognized worldwide. Adam Clarke, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters UK, emphasized the contract’s significance, showcasing how Leonardo’s helicopter business contributes millions of pounds to the UK economy through partnerships like this with the Japanese industry.
Kenya Takaha, Executive Senior General Manager of the Marketing Division Aerospace System Company at Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), acknowledged the importance of the MCH-101 program, emphasizing its potential to meet common operational requirements among countries like Japan, the United Kingdom, and Italy. The introduction of common equipment on the platform can effectively strengthen the defense capabilities of each nation.
The MCH-101 has a notable history, with KHI delivering the first AW101 aircraft to the JMSDF in May 2006. In 2015, the JMSDF received the first Airborne Mine Counter Measures equipped MCH-101. This versatile helicopter serves as one of the only two types worldwide capable of towing the AN/AQS-24A, a high-speed airborne mine hunting system. Its unique 3-engine configuration ensures safe operations during low-altitude and slow-speed towing. Since its operational service debut in 2016, the MCH-101 has accumulated over 25,000 flight hours in 2021, a testament to its reliability and performance.
Leonardo’s helicopters have played a crucial role in various programs in Japan since the mid-1980s. Presently, approximately 160 Leonardo helicopters of different types are in service with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), Coast Guard, Police, Fire Service, and are utilized by specialized operators for medical and commercial services.
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