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A tail rotor vibration has forced the Royal Australian Navy’s MRH-90 helicopters based at HMAS Albatross to be grounded.
A precautionary landing was forced to take place on HMAS Adelaide from an Army MRH-90 a fortnight ago, leading to the precautionary measure of grounding the helicopters, which are flown by 808 Squadron.
"The MRH-90 aircraft sustained a tail rotor vibration en route to Brisbane Airport," a defence spokesperson said.
"The aircraft captain aborted the mission and returned to HMAS Adelaide for a precautionary landing.
"No personnel were injured during the incident."
Defence confirmed that an investigation was underway to determine the cause of the vibration.
"While the investigation is underway, the Australian Defence Force has ceased all MRH-90 flying pending further technical investigation and advice," the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said no other ADF aircraft had been affected by the temporary cessation.
The Army has described the MRH-90 as “one of the most advanced tactical troop transport helicopters of the 21st century”.
Australia has ordered 46 MRH-90 Taipans, with the first accepted into service in 2007.
Defence describes the MRH-90 as a “fly-by-wire, all-composite construction, troop-lift helicopter with the highest crash-worthy standards. With a large cabin, a rear ramp, weather radar and forward-looking infra-red, the MRH-90 can transport greater loads and carry more troops in adverse conditions”.
The Taipan has a max speed of 300km/h with a range of 800 kilometres.
The full MRH-90 Program for Australia is as follows:
