Japan National Police order another AW139

TOKYO, April 17 (UPI) -- AgustaWestland reports the Japan National Police have ordered another AW139 helicopter, bringing the number of prefectures using its aircraft to 40.

The AW139 is a medium size, twin engine aircraft with a maximum speed of 193 miles per hour, a range of 675 miles and an endurance of nearly six hours.

The helicopter’s law enforcement configuration features a rescue hoist, search light, auxiliary tank and dedicated avionic systems, including an enhanced ground proximity warning system and enhanced vision system.

The helicopter ordered by the National Police will enter service in the Kagoshima Prefecture next year.

“This order represents the 9th Prefecture to operate the AW139 helicopter in a law enforcement role and underpins the strength of AgustaWestland’s products in the extremely competitive law enforcement market where over recent years we have gained significant market share,” said Andrew Symonds, president of AgustaWestland Japan.

AgustaWestland said more than 620 AW139s are in service around the world and that it has orders for more than 750 of the aircraft from 60 countries.