MARIGNANE, France, Sept. 20 (UPI) -- The Thai air force has ordered twin-engine tactical helicopters from Eurocopter for use in search-and-rescue operations.
Under the agreement, Eurocopter will supply four EC725 helicopters configured for search-and-rescue missions and deliver them in 2015.
"This latest endorsement underscores the role of our EC725/EC225 family as the helicopters of reference in Asia for search and rescue," Olivier Lambert, Eurocopter's senior vice president for Sales and Customer Relations said.
"It also marks a new step in Eurocopter's expansion of its ties with Thailand as the country moves ahead with modernization programs for its helicopter fleets."
The EC725 has a cruise speed of 177 miles per hour and a range of more than 500 miles. In transport configuration it can carry 25 soldiers or 12,500 pounds of payload.
Features include high-performance navigation and mission systems, including a digital four-axis autopilot.
The EC225 is the civilian/parapublic version of the aircraft.
"This contract for the EC725 will greatly enhance the capabilities of the Royal Thai Air Force, giving us added reach and effectiveness in search and rescue missions," said Air Marshal Paiboon Singhamat, chairman of the air force's Purchasing Committee.
