Agusta Westland, ABU DHABI, UAE: Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company announced today that the United Arab Emirates Air Force has awarded the Company a contract for eight AB139 medium-twin helicopters. The value of the contract stands at about US$83 million. The contract award coincides with the biennial IDEX military exposition held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
This order, combined with last week's from SEACOR Holdings for 20 AB139s, raises the backlog to more than 100 helicopters for over 40 customers worldwide.
Six aircraft will be configured for search and rescue operations, while the remaining two will be assigned to VIP transport. The UAE is the third country to choose the AB139 for SAR applications, following previous orders by the governments of Oman and Ireland.
Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company is a joint venture corporation that markets and supports the AB139 medium twin helicopter and the BA609 civil tiltrotor. The AB139 promises true medium lift capability combined with a class-leading interior designed for maximum utility. The BA609 features extended range and speed compared to traditional VTOL aircraft.
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, with primary operations in Italy, United Kingdom and USA, is a commercial enterprise offering an unrivaled range of products designed to satisfy the most diverse requirements of civil and military customers. With turnover exceeding $2.5 billion, AgustaWestland is committed to delivering outstanding products and services in globally competitive markets.
Bell Helicopter, a Textron Company, is a $1.6 billion, leading producer of commercial and military helicopters, and the pioneer of the revolutionary tiltrotor aircraft. Globally recognized for customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global workforce of over 8,500 employees serves customers flying Bell aircraft in over 120 countries.
