Saudi Arabia will acquire a dozen S-76Ds and has taken options on eight more S-76Ds to perform security, transport and other missions. "Delivery of the first helicopter is scheduled for early 2012," says Shane Eddy, vp Sikorsky Global Helicopters.

The Saudi Ministry of Interior says that factors in its decision included the aircraft's advanced avionics system and autopilot, dual rotor speed for quiet mode operation with active vibration control and an optional rotor ice protection system for all-weather capability. It adds: "The S-76D will offer an increase in useful load and extended range performance."