MARIGNANE, France, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Eurocopter's Brazilian will provide support services for EC725 helicopters flown by the country's military services under an $80.6 million, five-year contract.
The 50 twin-engine helicopters covered by the award are being manufactured at a new Helibras plant in Itajuba, Brazil.
Under the contract, Helibras will be responsible for spare parts and technical support for the aircraft, the first three of which have been delivered. It will also conduct the overhaul and repair of the helicopters.
"The establishment of strategic stocks specifically for the Brazilian military will lead to important savings in the purchase of spare parts," said Helibras Chief Executive Officer Eduardo Marson Ferreira.
"No longer will it be necessary for each branch of the armed forces to have its own supply structure, since Helibras will take care of everything."
The multi-role EC725 has a maximum speed of about 200 mph, a range of about 532 miles and can carry as many as 29 passengers. Its uses include search-and-rescue missions, long-range tactical transport and medical evacuation.
