Eurocopter has secured a launch customer for the law enforcement variant of its updated EC145T2, with an order for six examples from the Baden Württemberg state police.
To be delivered in 2015-16, the enhanced EC145s will replace the Landespolizei's fleet of EC155s and MD Helicopters MD902 Explorers and will be used in an observation and surveillance role.
The helicopters will be equipped with a dedicated mission management system and both a forward-looking infrared camera and standard daylight camera.
“With the procurement of six new police helicopters, we guarantee the highest standard for the police units,” says Reinhold Gall, minister of the interior of Baden Württemberg. “At the same time, the change to a fleet of only one helicopter type allows savings in maintenance and training.”
Certification and first delivery of the upgraded EC145T2 is scheduled for the second quarter of 2014. It gains new dual-channel FADEC-equipped Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines, an enhanced avionics suite and a Fenestron shrouded tail rotor.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
