The Japan Coast Guard will acquire three Eurocopter EC225 helicopters, with the new aircraft to be delivered at the end of 2013.
The purchase will bring the JCG's fleet of EC225s to five, said Eurocopter. The JCG purchased a pair of EC225s after an open tender in 2006.
Japan used its EC225s extensively for rescue and relief operations following the 11 March earthquake and tsunami in Japan. 
The tsunami destroyed one of the coastguard's AS332 L1 Super Pumas, and Japan now has just three of the type.
The twin-engined EC225 is in the 10-11 ton weight category, with a cabin that can seat 25 persons.
Source: Flight International
