Helicopters Leonardo and Italian Rescue Corps sign cooperation agreement

In mountain operations and hard terrain environments, the helicopter is the indispensable rescue vehicle. Now, manufacturer Leonardo and the Italian National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps have signed a renewed cooperation.

Together, the two parties will develop new technologies, solutions and training which can be implemented to make medical rescue operations in the mountains even more safe. Ultimately, new technologies could save human lives.

Back in December 2016, the two partners signed up for their initial cooperation. Now, nearly five years afterwards, the contract has been reproposed for the next three years. CNSAS carried out the largest number of rescue missions last year, while Leonardo constantly increases capabilities for its AW139 and AW169 helicopters.

President of the Italian National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps Maurizio Dellantonio, said: "The renewal of the agreement with Leonardo can only bring benefits to the entire emergency system and to the civil protection area in a broad sense [...] Modern medical rescue calls for development of a multi-agency perspective, where specialised rescue forces are also able to interface with the world of research and industrial production, to guarantee citizens an excellent service."

Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, added: "Our Training Academy in Sesto Calende today represents the collaboration path we undertook together years ago. We have strongly renewed our shared commitment in the training of personnel assigned to delicate operations through a unique vehicle such as the helicopter, through the development of new solutions and capabilities, which allow the air ambulance to perform its task better and better. We will work together on new projects that will allow us to bring the fruits of these synergies on board of our products."

A joint working group has been set up, consisting of professionals from both entities. Mainly, systems like target mapping, geolocation or navigation will be worked on. To further enhance effectiveness and efficiency, technical specifications and new mission equipment will be developed during the cooperation.