Swedish Maritime Agency receives first of seven helicopters

AgustaWestland AW139 of the Swedish Maritime Agency

AgustaWestland delivers first search and rescue helicopter to the Swedish Maritime Agency.

An AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter operated by the Swedish Maritime Agency.

The Swedish Maritime Agency received its first AW139 helicopter from AgustaWestland at a ceremony held at the Vergiate facility in Italy.

The aircraft is the first of seven AW139 helicopters on order from AgustaWestland, which will be equipped for search and rescue (SAR) operations in Sweden. The customer is expected to receive two more helicopters by end of the year, with all deliveries to be completed within 2014.

Daniele Romiti, CEO of AgustaWestland, said: “We are delighted to the deliver the first Swedish Maritime Administration’s AW139 as this event marks a major step forward in capability and sets a new important milestone for Sweden’s search and rescue.”

Romiti added: “By selecting one of the most advanced SAR-dedicated rotorcraft systems in our comprehensive product range, Sweden will also benefit from the AgustaWestland’s long standing, well established expertise in rescue operations. We are committed to supporting this leading customer to maximize the operational effectiveness and the unparalleled advantages of the AW139.”

The AW139 helicopter can be used for a range of missions including airborne law enforcement, search and rescue, offshore, executive, airline and emergency medical services.

It has a maximum take-off weight of 6,400 kg and can carry up to 15 passengers with two crew members.