Malta buys AW139 helo for SAR

The Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) has procured a single AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter for search-and-rescue (SAR) and maritime patrol and has signed an option for two more, the company disclosed on 19 July.

The deal, which includes support and training for 10 pilots and 20 technicians, should see the first helicopter delivered by June 2014. All three helicopters should be in AFM service by 2015 if options are exercised.

According to AgustaWestland, the twin-engined aircraft will be equipped with a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) system, search and weather radar, a cabin mission console, naval transponder, searchlight, satellite communication system, a four-axis autopilot with SAR modes, external rescue hoist, and a four-bag floatation system.

AgustaWestland has been awarded a contract for delivery of a AW139 medium-sized twin-engined helicopter to the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM).

Awarded as part of an ongoing plan to strengthen the AFM's operational capabilities, the contract covers delivery of a single helicopter, alongside an option for two additional aircraft, an integrated logistic support (ILS) package and training of ten pilots, including four students and 20 technicians.

The helicopters are scheduled to operate in maritime border patrol and search and rescue (SAR) missions.

AgustaWestland International Government Business Unit senior vice-president Marco Acca said: ''The AW139 has demonstrated yet again after an extensive evaluation that it is best-in-class; delivering unmatched capability, performance and value for money when compared to other competing models.''

Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6C turboshaft engines, the AW139 is a 15-seat medium-sized twin-engined helicopter, designed to conduct law enforcement/emergency medical service, executive transport and maritime and offshore oil operations in hot and high conditions.

he helicopter, with a flying speed of 165k, features a low acoustic signature, integrated mission avionics and a full ice protection system to complete missions in demanding environments.

The Maltese helicopters are scheduled to be supplied with an advanced maritime patrol and SAR mission equipment package, including a high-definition forward-looking infrared (FLIR) system, search/weather radar, cabin mission console and a searchlight and satellite communication system.

Additional equipment will include a four-axis autopilot with SAR modes, naval transponder, external rescue hoist, as well as a four bag floatation system.

The helicopter is currently operating in Italy, Spain, Estonia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, UK and US, amongst others.

Delivery of the first helicopter is scheduled to take place before June 2014, while the remaining two AW139s, if acquired, will be delivered by 2015.

Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta: 1 AgustaWestland AW139 Maritime border patrol and SAR missions on order, will be delivered by June 2014 plus option for two more.


Source: Gareth Jennings, London - IHS Jane's Defence Weekly News /(army-technology.com) - 21 July 2013

Photo: The Malta is to buy up to three AW139 helicopters (AW1071) for maritime patrol and SAR duties. (Photo by AgustaWestland)


(5.01.2014)