More news from Leonardo. After the launch of the new drone, the company led by Alessandro Profumo has announced the signing of a contract with the Fire Brigade which provides for the supply of 5 AW139 helicopters and an integrated logistic support package and training for pilots and technicians. The new aircraft, which will be delivered by June 2020, are added to the 3 aircraft already purchased by the Fire Brigade to gradually replace the AB412 helicopters that have been in service for decades now-
“The introduction of the AW139 represents a substantial improvement in the capabilities of the air service of the National Fire Brigade which will be able to count on the most modern helicopter in the world for search and rescue (SAR) operations in sea and mountain environments, medical transport , fire and civil protection. The fleet modernization program includes an option for seven additional helicopters, in addition to the eight already ordered”, Leonardo explains in a note.
The Aw139s will be able to be used in rescue and firefighting missions by firefighters. In fact, their characteristics include equipment such as a recovery winch, a barycentric hook for the use of a fire bucket, weather radar, a satellite communication system, an electro-optical system, a high-definition mission console developed by Leonardo and a ground transmission system some data.
The helicopters are equipped with anti-collision systems, night vision goggles, search lights, emergency floats and life rafts. It is no coincidence that the AW139s are already adopted not only by the firefighters but also by the Air Force, the Coast Guard, the Guardia di Finanza, the State Police, emergency medical transport operators, for a total of 61 aircraft ordered by government operators national.
