Royal Thai Army signs on for AW139
AgustaWestland has announced that the Royal Thai Army has signed a contract for two AW139 twin-engine helicopters, marking the entry of the aircraft into Thailand’s military helicopter market. The contract value was not disclosed by the company.
The aircraft will be delivered in 2014 to perform transport and utility missions across the nation. The contract also includes a comprehensive maintenance and training package.
The AW139 has a cruise speed of 165 knots (306 kph), a range in excess of 500 nm (927 km), endurance of 5 hours and advanced hover performance. It can accommodate up to 15 passengers, and the cabin can be configured for seating or equipment transport. The baggage compartment provides 3.4 cubic metres (120 cubic feet) of storage which is accessible from both the cabin and outside the helicopter.
The Royal Thai Army is the latest military customers to order the AW139 for a wide range of roles including VVIP and government transport, utility, search and rescue, emergency medical service and homeland security. The armed forces of Ireland, Qatar, UAE, Italy and Egypt are just some of those operating the AW139 today.
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