Australian Defence confirms disposal of decommissioned MRH90 Taipans.

In response to the recent article in Asia-Pacific Defence Reporter regarding the future of Australia's MRH 90 Taipan helicopters, the Australian Department of Defence has clarified its position. Contrary to speculation, they are committed to handling the aircraft in an environmentally responsible and cost-effective manner, as reported by Nigel Pittaway in Australian Defence Magazine.
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The decision to replace the Taipans with 40 Black Hawk helicopters from the United States, favored by the Army, has faced delays, with only three of these helicopters having flown in Australia so far (Picture source: Australian Army)

As of September 2023, the Australian Government announced that the MRH 90 helicopter fleet would no longer be used for flying operations. In collaboration with Airbus Australia Pacific and NATO Helicopter Industries, Defence intends to salvage key spares from the MRH 90 fleet for the benefit of other NH 90 operators. The remaining airframes and systems will be disposed of following environmentally friendly protocols. Despite exploring the possibility of offering the helicopters or spare parts to other NH 90 operators, including New Zealand, no interested parties came forward to acquire complete aircraft.

The decision to ground the MRH 90 fleet followed a tragic accident during Exercise Talisman Sabre off the Queensland coast, despite an ongoing crash inquiry. This decision raised questions about whether it was politically motivated rather than driven by concerns about the helicopters' airworthiness. Criticism of the European-made MRH 90 helicopters has persisted since their introduction in 2007. While the manufacturer initially faced challenges in supporting the helicopters, Defence appears to have convinced Minister Richard Marles of the necessity for immediate disposal.

The decision to replace the Taipans with 40 Black Hawk helicopters from the United States, favored by the Army, has faced delays, with only three of these helicopters having flown in Australia so far. This has left the Australian Defence Force with a critical shortage of helicopter capability, particularly during times of major flooding in parts of the country.

It's important to note that these decommissioned helicopters will not be offered to Ukraine.