New helicopters for Ecuador

MARIGNANE, France, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- An Ecuadorian army aviation brigade has taken delivery of two new aircraft from Eurocopter of France under an aviation modernization program.

Eurocopter said the two Ecureuil AS350 B2 helicopters transferred to Ecuador was the first installment of a 2010 order for nine of the systems.

"The renewal of our helicopter fleet is a key feature of the army's modernization process," said Ecuadorian Defense Minister Javier Ponce.

"This purchase will equip the armed forces with a new generation of helicopters with lower maintenance costs."

The Ecureuil AS350 B2 is a single-engine aircraft with a maximum cargo swingload of more than 2,500 pounds. It is powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 1D1 engine and can fly three hours at a speed of 160 miles per hour.

Eurocopter said the helicopter can carry four passengers in addition to its two-man crew.

The helicopters delivered feature night-flight equipment and rescue hoists in accordance with Ecuadorian requirements.

The army aviation brigade intends to use the Ecureuil AS350 B2s for pilot training, search-and-rescue, reconnaissance and other activities.

Eurocopter noted that Ecuador operates a variety of its aircraft models, including Super Pumas, Alouettes, Gazelles and Lamas.

The company said as part of the 2010 contract it will also deliver seven Fennec AS550 C3s by 2015.

Ecuador had a ceremony at the army aviation brigade base in La Balvina, Sangolqui, for the delivery of the Ecureuils. It was attended by Ponce, head of Armed Forces Joint Command Ernesto Gonzalez and army commander Patricio Cardenas.

Eurocopter is part of EADS, the European aerospace and defense company.