Croatia’s Ministry of Interior to Take 2023 Delivery of Two Ships

Bell Textron Inc. has announced the signing of a purchase agreement by which two Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters will be delivered to the Republic of Croatia’s Ministry of Interior. The deal marks the first European purchase of Subaru Bell’s 412EPX. The two helicopters are slated to be delivered in October 2023.

Bell managing director Duncan Van De Velde states: “The Subaru Bell 412EPX adds increased payload capabilities to the world-renowned Bell 412 platform, and this agreement continues to expand its reputation. We are thrilled to bring the most modern version of the Bell 412 platform to a European customer and showcase its capabilities.”

The Republic of Croatia’s Ministry of the Interior is tasked with a complex mission comprising but not limited to criminal, border, and special police operations; civil protection; firefighting and fire protection; production and trade in explosive substances and weapons; private protection; detective affairs; and mine action.

Croatian Minister of Interior Davor Božinovi, Ph.D. remarks: “The Ministry of Interior is honored to be the first European customer to sign a purchase agreement for the Subaru Bell 412EPX. We look forward to utilizing its unique capabilities and durability to protect and defend the citizens of Croatia.”

Certified in 2018, the Subaru Bell 412EPX is a utility helicopter of the Huey family based on the Bell 412 prototype which first flew in 1979. The aircraft is powered by two electronically-controlled, 1,800-shaft-horsepower, Pratt & Whitney PT6T-9 engines coupled to a robust main rotor gearbox with run-dry capability. The gearbox delivers increased mast torque output at speeds below 60-knots, thereby enabling operators to transport heavier loads more safely and efficiently. The 412EPX has a maximum internal weight of 12,200-pounds, a maximum external weight of 13,000-pounds, and can support up to a 5,000-pound cargo hook load.

The Subaru Bell 412 EPX is a joint venture between Bell Flight and Subaru in the South East Asia Region. The aircraft features a standard 15-seat configuration (one pilot plus 14 passengers), a cruise speed of 123-knots, a maximum range of 361-nautical-miles, and a hover OGE ceiling of 6,700 ft. The machine’s OEM list price is a cool $12,875,000.

FMI: www.bellflight.com