8 Place Helicopters To Fill A Variety Of Missions

The Bangladesh Navy has signed a contract for two AW109 Power maritime helicopters, AgustaWestland announced Monday. The helicopters will be used for a wide range of naval missions including search and rescue, economic zone protection, surface surveillance and maritime security. The aircraft will be delivered in 2011 and will be capable of being operated from the frigate BNS Bangabandhu.

The contract also includes a comprehensive training package including VFR/IFR conversion for aircrew, initial operational maritime training using an AW109 Power Level-D flight simulator and training for maintenance engineers.

Graham Cole, Managing Director, AgustaWestland said "We are delighted that the Bangladesh Navy has selected the AW109 Power to meet its maritime helicopter requirements after a thorough evaluation of all available platforms. We look forward to delivering the helicopters and the comprehensive training and support solution we have tailored specifically to meet the requirements of the Bangladesh Navy."

The AW109 Power is a 3 ton class eight seat helicopter powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW206C engines with FADEC. The cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles. The aircraft's safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.

For shipboard operations the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures. The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW109 Power to perform its mission when many others helicopters would be confined to the ship's hangar.

Over 550 AW109 Power and AW109 LUH helicopters have been ordered for commercial, parapublic and military applications by customers in almost 50 countries.

FMI: www.agustawestland.com