Wide Range of Missions Predicted – Including Antarctic Programme Support
The Brazilian Navy has placed an order with Airbus Helicopters for three H135 light twin-engined helicopters, the company announced on 21 February.
To be operated by the Navy’s 1st General Purpose Helicopter Squadron (HU-1), the aircraft will be dedicated to a wide range of missions such as special operations, troop/cargo transport, naval inspection, search and rescue and medical evacuation. They will replace the current AS355 aircraft in service and could be used within the Brazilian Antarctic Programme, according to Airbus.
Two of the helicopters will be equipped with aeromedical kits. Other equipment will include a cargo hook, an emergency flotation system, a winch, as well as a weather radar. The contract includes a comprehensive HCare support and services package, which will guarantee the highest levels of availability for.
“The H135’s low operating costs and excellent availability rate make it the ideal helicopter to fulfil the Navy’s challenging missions and needs,” observed Helibras President and Airbus Head of Country in Brazil, Richard Marelli.
To date, more than 1,280 helicopters of the H135 family are in operation around the globe, having flown 4.9 million flight hours.
