Leonardo announced that Bristow Group has signed a contract to procure six AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters to support the Second-Generation Search and Rescue Aviation (“UKSAR2G”) program by the U.K. Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
Aircraft deliveries are expected to start in 2023 and will be completed in 2024, joining an existing fleet of nine AW189 super medium twin-engine SAR helicopters as part of the UKSAR2G program.
This latest AW139s will feature the very latest in product enhancement, technology, and mission capability for the task including a 7-ton MTOW (Maximum Take-Off Weight), Honeywell Primus Epic integrated avionics Phase 8, an advanced Synthetic Vision System (SVS), improved 2D maps and wireless data loading, which will deliver even greater all-weather capabilities and mission effectiveness.
These AW139s will also feature a Limited Ice Protection System (LIPS) to deliver even greater mission capability in demanding weather conditions. This new fleet of AW139 SAR helicopters for the UKSAR2G requirement will benefit from the new Leonardo-Bristow long-term global service program.
The aircraft will also undergo a mission system integration to be carried out by Bristow in partnership with Nova Systems after their delivery, ensuring even greater involvement of the UK-based industry.
