Japan Coast Guard receives first Sikorsky SAR configured S-76D helicopter

Sikorsky Aircraft has delivered its first S-76D aircraft configured for search-and-rescue (SAR) services to Mitsubishi for deployment by the Japan Coast Guard.

The Japan Coast Guard’s latest aircraft features a fully coupled, four-axis autopilot to bring down pilot workload, while enhancing overall mission safety.

Sikorsky Commercial Systems & Services Platforms director Dan Hunter said that the company has delivered its first S-76D helicopter outfitted for SAR operations to a customer who has already deployed the S-76 family including S-76C, S-76C+ and S-76C++ models.

"Japan is an important market with many potential customers for all S-76D mission segments, and we are thrilled to have more of our aircraft operate in the region," Hunter added.

Integrating modern technologies, the latest S-76D helicopter offers a significant rise in performance, power and authority.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines, the helicopter features an advanced THALES TopDeck integrated avionics system and four-axis autopilot; health and usage monitoring system (HUMS) incorporated into fleet monitoring and analysis; active vibration control;, and all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades.

Further, the helicopter may be equipped with a rotor ice protection system (RIPS) for all-weather capability.

Sikorsky delivered its first S-76D aircraft to Bristow Group for offshore oil worker transport last year, while has also commenced delivering S-76D aircraft customised for VIP/Executive Transportation.

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Image: Japan Coast Guard’s first Sikorsky S-76D helicopter configured for search and rescue missions. Photo: courtesy of SikorskyAircraft Corporation.