The
Finnish Border Guard is to expand its Eurocopter fleet with the acquisition
of two additional AS332 L1 Super Puma helicopters fully equipped for
maritime search and rescue missions in the country’s challenging
conditions.
With deliveries scheduled for 2015, the rotorcraft will be configured
as the AS332 L1e version, incorporating the integrated advanced cockpit
and automatic flight control systems used on Eurocopter’s EC225
helicopter. They are to be based at Helsinki and outfitted for day/night
operations – equipped with high-definition forward-looking infrared
(FLIR) technology, a four-axis autopilot and full deicing. |
Signing
of the agreement was performed yesterday in Helsinki by Brigadier General
Mikko Kirjavainen, substitute Chief of the Finnish Border Guard, and
Navy Captain Jukka Jaakkola, Chief of the Technical Department for the
Finnish Border Guard headquarters; with Jacques Cardaillac, Eurocopter’s
Head of Sales for Northern Europe and Benelux, as well as Eurocopter
Sales Manager Didier Parasme.
The Finnish Border Guard already operates three AS332L1 rotorcraft,
which are assigned to its Turku base on the southwest coast of Finland.
The service has logged nearly 25 years experience with these Super Pumas
– validating the service’s reputation for professionalism
and effectiveness, while also confirming the helicopter’s capabilities
in even the most extreme environment.
“This latest acquisition once again demonstrates the AS332’s
qualities in highly demanding missions, and it underscores the Finnish
Border Guard’s continued confidence in the Super Puma as a long-time
operator,” explained Cardaillac
When it introduces the two new AS332 L1e helicopters in late 2015, the
Finnish Border Guard will benefit from the commonality with its current
AS332 L1 fleet, optimizing resources for logistics and maintenance management,
as well as the training of pilots and technicians. |
