In
August last year, Martyn Hiscock, Senior Business Manager for Chemring
Countermeasures (CCM) flew to Kenya to attend and support a live flare firing
trial on behalf of Everett Aviation who are based in Nairobi. There were a number of factors affecting the
timing of the testing and with a sudden window of opportunity CCM was requested
to support the testing with only one day’s notice!
The
trials took place at the Magadi Air Strip, Kenya with two BK117 helicopters
fitted with flare dispensers which had been cleared to release flares. Each BK117 went through a 16 point test
involving various manoeuvres to determine safe flight clearance. The trial
concluded with each aircraft jettisoning its remaining flares from the
magazine. At the end of the trial the
helicopters were certified as cleared to perform operations on behalf of an
international aid agency.
The trials proved to be a complete success with
several potential opportunities in the pipeline for CCM. Everett Aviation expressed their gratitude
for the continued support provided by Chemring Countermeasures. 
Preparation of a BK117 for the flare clearance trial A local tribesman observes with interest
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