Leonardo and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, official distributor for the AW139, AW169 and AW189 types in Japan, have announced an order for two AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopters, with deliveries expected in 2028. This contract was part of the framework agreement that the two companies announced last year which calls for the eventual purchase of 11 helicopters, types to be defined, in the 2025-2027 period.
According to Leonardo, the order comes at a time when multiple public service requirements emerge in Japan, particularly for law enforcement and firefighting duties, mission types where the AW139 has already proven a popular solution for a number of operators in Japan.
The relationship between Leonardo and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace started in 2004 has contributed to reshape and modernise Japan’s helicopter fleet. Since then, the partners have jointly supplied more than 90 aircraft in the 5-to-9-ton weight categories to national, local and private operators, and more units are already contracted and scheduled for delivery this year.
Image: RHI
