More Expected To Replace Older Birds

AgustaWestland and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace announced last week the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Agency (TMPA) signed a contract for its second AW139 medium-twin helicopter. The TMPA received its first AW139 in March 2006.

The company expects further orders from TMPA to replace older models in the fleet. Tokyo Metropolitan Police AW139s are equipped with NVG compatible cockpit, search light, loudspeaker, rescue hoist, HD side mounted camera, emergency floats, rappelling kit and other specific mission police equipment.

The AW139 features large sliding doors, a cabin which allows easy configuration changes, and an internally and externally accessible baggage compartment large enough to carry a multitude of mission specific equipment. With a maximum speed of 165 knots, an AW139 can be quickly deployed to any crime scene or accident location.

The helo's integrated avionic system also provides the basis for managing the sensors and communications equipment required for the law enforcement role.

Numerous law enforcement and public service agencies around the world have chosen the AW139 to fulfill their diverse operational requirements, including Japan Coast Guard, Korean Coast Guard, Chinese Police, Spanish Maritime Safety Agency, Italian Civil Protection, CHC for the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Dutch Police, Estonian Border Guard, Queensland Government of Australia, Korean Gangwon Fire Fighting Department and the Nigerian National Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.

Approximately 350 orders have been placed by nearly 100 customers from almost 40 countries to date. Designed with inherent multi-role capability and flexibility of operation, the AW139 can perform many roles including law enforcement, offshore transport, search and rescue, emergency medical service, VIP/corporate transport and military utility missions.

FMI: www.agustawestland.com, www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.jp/foreign/submenu.htm