Leonardo-Finmeccanica has expanded its defence helicopter range with the addition of a new AgustaWestland AW101 Norwegian All-Weather SAR Helicopter (NAWSARH).
Norway signed a contract in 2013 for 16 AW101s and initial integrated support and training services for a period of 15 years.
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NAWSARH, equipped with the company’s Osprey AESA radar will be delivered to the Royal Norwegian Air Force.
Leonardo-Finmeccanica said that Osprey is the world’s first lightweight airborne surveillance radar to be built with no moving parts and it will provide a 360 degree view.
Deliveries under the contract will begin in March 2017 and continue through to 2020.
Leonardo Helicopters managing director Daniele Romiti said: "This aircraft, the latest version of the AW101, can claim to be the world’s most capable and advanced SAR helicopter in the world.
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By GlobalData"The combination of the platform’s large cabin, exceptional performance and all-weather capabilities along with the very latest advanced sensors and mission equipment give the aircraft unmatched capabilities."
The aircraft comes with a four-axis digital automatic flight control system (AFCS), two rescue hoists, searchlight, electro optical device, mobile telephone detection system and a fully integrated avionics and mission system.
It also features other advanced systems that improve flight safety including a laser obstacle avoidance system (LOAM) and obstacle proximity LIDAR system (OPLS) which provide warnings of wires and other obstacles.
Image: Norway signing contract for 16 AW101s in 2013. Photo: courtesy of Leonardo Finmeccanica Società per azioni.
