Royal Thai Police takes delivery of new Airbus AS365 N3+ helicopter

Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first of two search and rescue configured AS365 N3+ helicopters to the Thai Police aviation division, the Royal Thai Police (RTP).

Delivered as part of an order placed between 2012 and 2013, the new helicopter is equipped with electrical hoist, rappelling installation, cargo sling and search lights.

An RTP spokesperson said: "This new acquisition is part of RTP’s modernisation programme to reinforce our capability to protect and serve the people.

"This helicopter will be particularly useful in rescue activities as well as in supporting our traditional police missions such as border protection, anti-smuggling and anti-terrorism."

Capable of being operated in hot climates and high altitudes, the AS365 N3+’s size and manoeuvrability are said to enable police forces to manoeuvre in the most curbed areas.

The helicopter’s 4-axis autopilot feature is expected to ease troop workload and assist in simplifying the most demanding operations including search and rescue missions.

Airbus Helicopters Southeast Asia managing director Derek Sharples said: "Besides benefiting from Airbus Helicopters’ Bangkok-based support centre, RTP will also receive high quality training in nearby Singapore where the AS365 N3+ full-flight simulator is located."

The RTP has been operating a fleet of Airbus Helicopters’ Dauphin family comprising five EC155s since 2009 as Royal transport aircraft.

The second aircraft under the order is expected to be delivered in mid-2015.

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Image: Officials during the delivery of the AS365 N3+ helicopter. Photo: courtesy of Airbus Helicopters.

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