Leonardo and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, the official distributor in Japan of the AW139, AW169 and AW189 helicopters, yesterday announced the signing of a contract for four helicopters during an official ceremony during Japan Aerospace 2018. The contract, relating to four helicopters belonging to the models distributed by Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, further consolidates the partnership between Leonardo and the Japanese operator which has greatly contributed to the growth of Leonardo's fleet in Japan where the AW139 model is the best seller in its class in the country. The collaboration with Mitsui has also more recently been extended to the new AW169 and AW189 models, the most successful products in their respective segments, paving the way for further expansion of Leonardo's presence in Japan.
Last March, Mitsui Bussan Aerospace and Leonardo signed a three-year renewal of the distribution agreement for the AW169, AW139 and AW189 models. In addition, the partners have also signed the agreement for the supply of spare parts, thus strengthening the support and maintenance services in the country. The AW139 has proven itself as a winning product in the country for a wide range of utility roles including search and rescue, patrolling with the Coast Guard, public order, firefighting and civil defense with Police and Fire authorities, both nationally and in various prefectures and municipalities. Leonardo's headquarters in Tokyo has supported the growth of the Company's presence in Japan since 2008. Around 130 Leonardo helicopters are currently in service in the country performing a wide range of missions, including law enforcement, air ambulance, search and rescue, firefighting , natural disaster relief, passenger transport, television filming and naval operations.
The helicopter fleet in Japan is supported by an extensive customer services network present throughout the country and which foresees the forthcoming opening of a maintenance center in Shizuoka. The Japanese helicopter market shows significant potential in the coming decades with up to 30 new units entering the market each year.
