The Italian police force has taken delivery of its first two AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopters on schedule. The helicopters will be operated by the 1st Aviation Unit of the Italian police and based at Pratica di Mare, close to Rome. The delivery forms the first part of an eight-aircraft contract signed last July.

The AW139 was the helicopter of choice for the police force as it is currently undergoing an extensive modernisation programme and believes the specification of the aircraft to be well suited to its demanding mission schedule. This model is already in service with both the Italian Coast Guard, Guardia di Finanza (customs and border protection) and the Italian Air Force. The police force will be able to take advantage of the existing logistical support in place at these fellow organisations.

The number of AW139s in service with Italian government operators now stands at 31, and these helicopters engage in a wide spectrum of roles, covering law enforcement, homeland security, patrol, special operations, search and rescue, government and vvip transport, disaster relief and command and control.