Japan’s Nara and Miyazaki prefectures place new orders for Subaru Bell 412EPX
Japan’s helicopter fleet is expanding in a bid to advance its emergency response capabilities
Bell Flight has announced that Japan’s Nara Prefecture and Miyazaki Prefecture signed purchase agreements for two Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters with Subaru Corporation. Scheduled for delivery in 2025, the 412EPX aircraft are expected to be used for firefighting, rescue, emergency, and medical operations.
The two prefectures currently utilize the Bell 412EP, meaning the transition to the Subaru Bell 412EPX should be smooth, considering the commonalities they share. With its extended hover ceiling, increased load capacity, robust main rotor gearbox and dry run capability, the Subaru Bell 412EPX will be well equipped to deliver efficient operational performance.
In 2021, Subaru Corporation announced the delivery of its Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopter to Japan’s National Policy Agency, marking the world’s first delivery of the model.
In recent news, the Guatemalan military acquired a Bell 429 to enhance Guatemala’s recovery and response capabilities.
Chloe Fox
Chloe Fox is an Senior Editorial Assistant for Voyageur Group, joining in 2024. She writes for AirMed&Rescue and ITIJ, covering a range of topics including international travel and health insurance, medical assistance provision, and air medical transportation. Chloe holds a BA (Hons) in English and an MA in English Literature from the University of Bristol.