The WA Police Force has ordered one Airbus Helicopters H145, making it the first Australian customer to operate the five-bladed version of the H145.
Purchased to replace its BK117 helicopter, and to operate alongside the AS365, the H145 brings single-pilot and IFR as well as night vision goggle capability to WA Police.
“We thank the WA Police Force for the opportunity to support its critical operations with our latest five-bladed H145 offering," said Andrew Mathewson, Managing Director, Airbus Australia Pacific.
"The H145 is well regarded as a reference law enforcement helicopter, and we are proud to be able to configure the aircraft to include the mobile policing command post to enhance the capability of the WA Police Force, both in the air and on the ground,”
On top of its multi-mission fit out, the helicopter ordered will have a fully integrated on-board police mission system, providing airborne law enforcement capability. This is complemented with Airbus’ Helionix avionics suite and four-axis autopilot, significantly reducing crew workload.
“Not only have we sourced an exceptional helicopter and flying command post for the vast State of Western Australia, we are also partnering with a global aviation company who has an extensive local footprint in Australia, ensuring our fleet availability,” WA Minister for Police Michelle Roberts said,
The new aircraft will be based in Perth, servicing all of WA.