The Irish Department of Defence

has signed a contract for the purchase of four brand-new twin turbine AB139 helicopters from Bell/

Agusta Aerospace.

The deal, which is worth ?49 million, was signed by Minister for Defence Willie O’Dea TD, and will be followed by the purchase of two light utility Eurocopter EC135 helicopters later this year – bringing the overall cost to approximately ?60 million.

The AB139s were selected for

use by the Irish Air Corps as air ambulance, inland SAR, troop transport, training and vip

transport helicopters.

“I am looking forward to these helicopters coming on stream over the next three years,” said O’Dea.

“These new helicopters will provide a very significant boost to the Defence Forces and Air Corps.”

According to Bell/Agusta, several government agencies around the world have shown an interest in the AB139, which received Italian (ENAC) certification in 2003 and EASA and FAA certification last year. The company currently has orders for more than 80 aircraft from 40 customers worldwide.