UAE selects AW609 TiltRotor for SAR ops

AgustaWestland AW609

The Joint Aviation Command (JAC) of the UAE is to be the launch customer for the AgustaWestland AW609 TiltRotor SAR variant.

The JAC has three firm orders and three options of the AW609 TiltRotor. The first three aircraft are slated for delivery in 2019.

“The AW609’s unique speed and range characteristics, combinedwith its ability to hover, will dramatically increase SAR mission capabilities of the UAE’s Joint Aviation Command.”

The Joint Aviation Command said: “The AW609’s unique speed and range characteristics, combinedwith its ability to hover, will dramatically increase SAR mission capabilities of the UAE’s Joint Aviation Command. We look forward to operating the AW609 TiltRotor and utilizing the speed advantage it brings.”

The Joint Aviation Command currently operates eleven AW139 helicopters for a range of missions, including SAR.