Bahrain has tapped European aerospace manufacturer Airbus to deliver nine H145 helicopters for the Police Aviation Command fleet. Representatives from the government led by visiting Minister of Interior Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa formalized the deal in Marignane, France.
The new helicopters will be used for law enforcement operations and emergency medical services.
The latest iteration of the H145 provides the kingdom with advanced air capabilities. The 4-ton-class twin-engine helicopter features a five-bladed rotor, enabling it to carry an additional 150-kilogram load. The multimission aircraft can hold one or two pilots and up to 10 passengers. It also comes with quick takeoff, precise landing and 50 percent sustainable aviation fuel capabilities.
Air Defense Capabilities
According to Olivier Michalon, executive vice president for global business of Airbus Helicopters, the “truly multirole” aircraft will be critical to increasing the Bahraini police’s capability to respond to public safety emergencies.
“More than 60 H145s are already in service in the Middle East and demand for this type of helicopter continues to grow for a vast array of missions: emergency medical services, operations in the energy sector, law enforcement and utility missions,” he said.
The Bahraini government has invested in several new air defense technologies in recent months. In March, Lockheed Martin delivered the first batch of F-16 Block 70 jet fighters, new jets allowing Bahrain to collaborate closely with allies and partners, especially in securing regional stability.