News > The EC145 makes a “starring” appearance at HELI-EXPO 2009 in its law enforcement configuration

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The EC145 makes a “starring” appearance at HELI-EXPO 2009 in its law enforcement configuration

February 23, 2009

American Eurocopter is showcasing the EC145’s capabilities for highly-demanding law enforcement missions by exhibiting the helicopter in its STAR-145 (Security and Tactical Airborne Response) configuration at HELI-EXPO 2009.

Mission equipment on the STAR-145 helicopter displayed at HELI-EXPO 2009 includes FLIR Systems’ Star SAFIRE® HD high-definition sensor.

The twin-engine aircraft’s performance and excellent payload lift capacity – combined with high maneuverability, compact airframe and large cabin – enable the STAR-145 to serve a full range of applications, from port patrol and tactical team deployment to command and control, fire fighting and MEDEVAC operations.

EC145s are in wide use across the U.S. today with air medical service providers, and are performing homeland security and support missions in increasing numbers as the U.S. Army’s new UH-72A Light Utility Helicopter.

“The EC145 is a highly capable platform for state agencies, port authorities and other operators that require a larger multi-role platform at an affordable price,” said Ed Van Winkle, American Eurocopter’s Law Enforcement Marketing Manager.  “And just as the U.S. Army is using UH-72As to replace aging UH-1 Hueys, the EC145 provides a new-generation rotorcraft for law enforcement and para-public organizations requiring helicopters in this category.”

Van Winkle noted the Texas Department of Public Safety already is flying EC145s as a medium twin-engine solution for their wide range of mission requirements, with equipment that includes side-mounted fixtures for the rappelling or fast roping of personnel, in addition to a hoist for search and rescue operations.

The STAR-145 displayed at HELI-EXPO 2009 has its cabin configured with a club-type seating arrangement for eight passengers (in addition to the pilot and co-pilot), while other configurations include troop-type seating for up to nine passengers.

“With its capacity and a maximum gross weight of just over 7,900 lb., the STAR-145 can rapidly deliver a tactical team, deploy divers for ship inspection in a port, and even land on a vessel due to its compact size,” Van Winkle said.  “The aircraft accepts a full range of equipment, including a firefighting bucket and cargo swing, along with FLIR, searchlight, cameras and real-time video downlink.”

The EC145’s modern avionics – including full autopilot – enhances operational safety and reduces pilot workload, especially in highly demanding missions, he added.

For more information on American Eurocopter’s presence at HELI-EXPO 2009, see the related coverage from Anaheim, California:

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