Leonardo distributor Mitsui Bussan Aerospace (MBA) of Japan has ordered six more AW139 intermediate-twin helicopters. The deal will bring the number of AW139s in Japan to nearly 70.
The agreement follows AW139 deliveries and orders in the country for end users such as the the Japan Coast Guard (21 AW139s) and the Japan National Police Agency (two). In addition, three AW139s will be delivered in 2024 to Ishikawa Prefecture Fire Fighting & Disaster Relief; Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of Hokuriku; and Saitama Prefecture Fire Fighting and Disaster Relief.
AW139s in service in Japan have logged more than 110,000 flight hours. Some 150 Leonardo helicopters of various types are in service in the country for a wide range of missions, including law enforcement, emergency medical service, search and rescue, firefighting, disaster relief, VIP/corporate transport, electronic newsgathering, and maritime utility.
MBA specializes in aerospace, defense, and security systems; importing and selling helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, space, defense, and security-related equipment; and related services. Its products include Leonardo’s helicopters, defense machines, and aircraft engines. The company was founded in 1982 and is based in Tokyo.