The CUWP is designed and produced by Integrated Composites in order to lighten the helicopter and improve mission capability. The previous model was made out of steel and weighed considerably more than the new carbon composite design.
Integrated Composites notes that through further analysis, as well as extensive testing, it has been proven that this composite design is significantly stronger than the original metal pylon.
The CUWP mounts to the sides of the Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warrior attack helicopter, and supports a variety of weapons platforms.
Integrated Composites, of Marina, California, USA, is an AGC Aerospace & Defense company specialising in the engineering and fabrication of complex, lightweight composite assemblies.
