Leonardo celebrated a significant milestone with the delivery of the 100th TH-73A Thrasher helicopter to the United States Navy. This advanced training helicopter is designed to replace the aging TH-57B/C Sea Rangers and train the next generation of naval aviators.
The TH-73A is a modernized version of the commercial AW119Kx, featuring digital avionics and improved safety features. It is expected to serve the U.S. Navy for decades to come, providing essential training for pilots in the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and allied nations.
Leonardo expressed its pride in contributing to the Navy’s training program and its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its partners. The company emphasized the importance of providing high-quality training to ensure the readiness of future naval aviators.
The TH-73A is a crucial addition to the Navy’s training capabilities, offering advanced features and a seamless transition from fundamental flying to complex operational training. It is expected to play a vital role in producing highly skilled and proficient naval aviators who are prepared to meet the challenges of modern warfare.
Training by the numbers
As of mid-August, the Navy’s advanced helicopter training syllabus is currently comprised of more than 317 total Student Naval Aviators (SNAs), of which 185, or 58%, are currently in the TH-73A training curriculum.
This number is projected to peak at 66% when the second of three squadrons complete the transition this fall. The third and final squadron, Helicopter Training Squadron (HT) 28, is expected to begin the transition to the TH-73 later this year.
In addition, the commitment to flight training is unwavering, evidenced by the safe and effective execution of more than 43,000 flight hours flown in support of the Navy’s training requirements. To support the dynamic training environment, 133 Training Air Wing (TW) 5 instructor pilots have been qualified in the TH-73A, comprised of 86 conversion instructors and 47 new Instructors Under Training (IUTs). Many additional IUTs continue to hone their skills within the helicopter instructor training unit. The program also benefits from the expertise of eight contract maintenance provider Functional Check Pilots who have been qualified in the model in direct support of the program. More than 200 SNAs have completed the TH-73A syllabus and been winged Naval Aviators to date.
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