Swedish National Police order Bell Helicopter's 429 aircraft

FARNBOROUGH, England, July 15 (UPI) -- The Swedish National Police has signed a purchase agreement with Bell Helicopter for seven Bell 429 aircraft, the company announced.

The helicopters, which will be heavily customized, will be used in normal police missions, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and rescue missions.

The aircraft will be delivered next year.

"We are honored the Swedish National Police have chosen us to continue providing them with the aircraft their missions demand," said Patrick Moulay, Bell Helicopter's managing director in Europe. "We are thankful for the opportunity to help the Swedish National Police protect and serve their country."

The Swedish National Police have used Bell Helicopter products since 1964.

Bell 429 is a light twin-engine helicopter. It has a cruise speed of 172.5 miles per hour and a range of over 400 miles. Features include an integrated glass cockpit, advanced drive system and fully-coupled GPS approaches and IFR capability.

The signing of the purchase agreement was made at the Farnborough International Airshow. The value of the contract, however, was not disclosed.