The State Border Guard of Latvia has signed a contract with Leonardo for two AW119Kx single engine helicopters with the option for an additional unit, customised configuration, aircrew and maintenance technician training services. The aircraft will be delivered from the OEM's facility in Philadelphia, US, in 2019 and are set to perform a range of missions including SAR, transportation, firefighting and disaster relief. They will replace two existing Agusta-Bell 206B JetRangers.

The guard already operates two AW109 Power light twins, and has done so for the last decade. The AW119Kx, which is able to accommodate up to six passengers, was chosen as part of the Latvian Ministry of the Interior's fleet modernisation programme. The combination of AW109 Power and AW119Kx helicopters will boost the guard's mission capabilities and versatility for round-the-clock operations.