Escape Trainers for Puma and Merlin Helicopters to be Supplied to the RAF

First Major MOD Production order for team formed around Lutra Associates Ltd

Training in embarking, disembarkation and escape drills on the Puma and Merlin helicopter is to be provided on two simulators to be supplied by Lutra Associates, in partnership with Oxford Specialist Coachbuilders. This £200,000 plus contract has been placed by the UK MOD’s Defence Equipment and Support Commercial team at Army HQ following a competitive tender.

The two units, which will be housed in modified ISO containers, have been designed to be easily moved to wherever the training is required. This will result in the Joint Helicopter Command and the Royal Air Force saving money and being able to re-allocate aircraft to more operational uses whilst at the same time providing improved skill levels for the troops being trained.

Delivery will be undertaken by a team of Lutra's own associates and Oxford Specialist Coachbuilders Ltd (OSC).  The solution involves modifying and customising standard ISO containers based on a model used by OSC to provide award winning solutions for temporary learning environments. Project management and other specialist services will be provided by Lutra's associates.

Commenting on the project Tim Otter Chief Executive of Lutra said "Lutra Associates are delighted to receive this order and we look forward to working with the project team and the end users and demonstrating how effective the Lutra concept is at delivering effective, innovative, value for money solutions to the end users."