Helicopters First AW101 for Royal Norwegian Air Force delivered

Bjørn Ivar Aarseth Nawsarh Project Manager, Ministry of Justice & Public Security said: “The delivery of the first aircraft marks a major milestone for the Norwegian All-Weather Search and Rescue Helicopter programme and everyone is delighted to see the first AW101 in Norway” Jon Clark, Leonardo’s Programme Manager added: “The AW101 we have developed for Norway is undoubtedly the world’s most capable SAR helicopter and it is with great pride that we have delivered the first aircraft that will serve the people of Norway for decades to come. This contract is very much a long-term partnership, consisting of industry, the Ministry of Justice & Public Security, the Royal Norwegian Air Force and the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency, which has a common goal to deliver a SAR service second to none - we are all looking forward to the aircraft entering operational service in 2018.”

The Royal Norwegian Air Force will use the Augusta Westland AW101´s primarily for search and rescue missions (SAR) and is therefore equipped with an advanced SAR equipment package. This includes a multi-panel Osprey AESA surveillance radar system, which provides 360° coverage, searchlight, large cabin doors, an Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) and fully integrated avionics and mission systems. Further, the AW101 features three-engine safety, an ice protection system and long-range capability. The aircraft will enter service with the Royal Norwegian Air Force in 2018, after going through several operational tests and evaluations. The AW101 will replace the Sea Kings currently in service.