The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has ordered an additional three H225 multi-role helicopters from Airbus Helicopters, bringing its total fleet of the type to 18 aircraft.
The new helicopters will be deployed for a range of security operations including territorial coastal activities, maritime law enforcement, as well as disaster relief missions across Japan.
“The Japan Coast Guard has been an active operator of the Super Puma family helicopters for three decades. This follow-on order demonstrates the customer’s confidence in our products and the dedicated support to their fleet,” said Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan.
JCG took delivery of three H225s in December 2023 and one more in February 2024 as part of its ongoing fleet expansion. The agency’s entire H225 fleet is covered by Airbus’ HCare Smart full-by-the-hour material support program to optimize availability.
The H225 is the latest model in Airbus’ Super Puma family, featuring increased performance, range, and payload capacity compared to previous versions. It incorporates upgraded avionics with large digital displays and automated systems to reduce pilot workload.
“We believe the H225 is the perfect choice for JCG’s critical missions for law enforcement, as well as coastal and island protection, given its versatility in all weather conditions,” Alfonsi commented.
A total of 24 H225 helicopters are currently operated in Japan by government agencies and emergency service providers for search and rescue, firefighting, VIP transport and cargo operations.
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