Norway's AW101 takes flight
The first of 16 AgustaWestland AW101 helicopters being built for the Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MoJ) has successfully performed its maiden flight at Finmeccanica’s Helicopter Division’s Yeovil factory, the company announced on 23 March.
The flight marks the start of the flight test programme that will lead to initial aircraft deliveries to the MoJ, for operation by the Royal Norwegian Air Force, in 2017. Aircraft deliveries will continue through to 2020.
Norway ordered the 16 AW101 helicopters plus support and training in December 2013 to meet the Norwegian All Weather SAR Helicopter (NAWSARH) requirement. Each aircraft will be delivered fitted with an advanced SAR equipment package including a multi-panel AESA surveillance radar system that provides 360° coverage. The large cabin doors and rear ramp provide easy access for personnel, survivors and equipment into the 27m3 cabin which has stand-up head room throughout.
Anders Anundsen, Minister of Justice and Public Security, said: ‘I am very pleased that Finmeccanica has reached this important milestone in the SAR helicopter project and thereby making good progress for the replacement of the aging Sea King helicopter with the new state-of-the-art AW101 by 2020.’
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