Belgian Seakings to retire in 2006?

Seakings to retire in 2006?

Minister of defence, André Flahaut, has announced that that there will be new helicopters delivered to the 40th squadron in Koksijde, possibly before 2007? This announced during his visit to the Air Base today. The seaking has been here in service since 1976 and since then they have become a legendairy sight at the Belgian coast, saving more then 5000 lives in its nearly 30 years of service.

To replace the seaking, a number of contenders have been selected, such as the NH-90 (frontrunner in the competition), EH-101, S-92, S-70 and the AB139. a decision on with helicopter to buy, will be made possibly by January 2006.

(source: VRTnieuws )