Dunlop secures major deal for Korean helicopter project

BIRMINGHAM manufacturer Dunlop Aircraft Tyres has secured a major deal to supply a new Korean helicopter programme.

The deal with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) will see the Fort Parkway firm become the exclusive supplier of tyres for the Korean Utility Helicopter (KUH), known as the Surion.

The aircraft is being developed to replace South Korea’s aging fleet of 500MD and UH-1H aircraft. The Surion made its first flight early in 2010 and more than 245 are on order.

Its missions will include aerial assault, troops and logistics transport, search and rescue and command and control. Technology used in the programme will also be used by KAI to develop a new commercial helicopter.

“This order builds on our relationship with KAI, a growing aerospace company that develops a range of rotary and fixed-wing military and civilian aircraft,” said DAT chairman, Ian Edmondson.

“We have worked with KAI as the exclusive supplier of nose tyres for its KTI military trainer, more than 100 of which are in service. It is testament to the quality of our product and service that we have won another exclusive deal with the manufacturer.

“This agreement with KAI will further strengthen the Dunlop brand within the Asian aerospace industry, where we have opened a new tyre distribution and retreading facility to serve the Asia Pacific region.”

DAT, which last year celebrated its centenary, is the only dedicated aircraft tyre manufacturer and retreader. It also has a support service which provides round-the-clock back-up to aircraft manufacturers and airlines around the world.

It customers include major international airlines, aircraft constructors, wheel and brake manufacturers and maintenance facilities throughout the world.

AAC Capital Partners, formerly the private equity business of ABN Amro, acquired 74.6% ownership of DAT in 2007.