PRC acquires six AW189 helicopters for maritime SAR operations

The PRC (MOT CRS) is China's only national maritime professional rescue and salvage force. It undertakes a range of missions, including emergency response to maritime accidents in Chinese waters, rescue of life, ships and property, salvage of sunken ships and wreckages, oil spill clean-ups, and other rescue missions for maritime transport and development of maritime resources. MOT CRS currently operates 20 helicopters across eight bases along China’s coastline. The six Leonardo AW189s will be joining MOT CRS in 2023 to extend its SAR capability to a radius of 200nm.

Gian Piero Cutillo, Leonardo Helicopters MD, said: “We are happy to contribute to this crucial life-saving program of the Ministry of Transport increasing its capabilities. The selection of the AW189 will deliver long-range search and rescue in demanding maritime environment conditions. We look forward to working with the operator for the introduction of the new fleet.” 

Adding to a range of other Leonardo helicopters in China

This order strengthens the company’s position in the Asia-Pacific region. Just before the contract was signed, Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau acquired two AW189s in November 2021 to strengthen Beijing Police Aviation’s law enforcement, SAR, and fire-fighting capabilities in the Chinese Capital’s metropolitan area. The two orders add to a range of other Leonardo helicopter types in China.

Belonging to the AW family of products, the AW189 (8.3/8.6 ton) combines superior payload and range with advanced technologies to successfully operate a wide range of missions. Unique features of the helicopter include the main transmission’s capability to run without oil for 50 minutes and a built-in Auxiliary Power Unit.

The fleet deliveries will be completed by 2023.