Bell Textron has put forward a proposal to Germany's federal police the Bundespolizei, competing for tender by offering the B525. The company has also signed teaming agreements with German suppliers to support Bell's industrial participation efforts in Germany. The industrial collaboration includes: Liebherr; GKN Aerospace; Solid Aerospace; PFW; CEROBEAR; Aircraft Philipp, a member of AMAG Group; and Kautex Textron.

These companies represent the German states of Baden Wurttemberg, Bavaria, North-Rhine Westphalia and Rhineland Palatinate. Additionally, Textron's established presence in Germany via its Kautex business offers Bell extended reach into the German market.

“Germany is an important market proving ground for rotorcraft innovation, and we are proud to offer the most advanced helicopter in its class for the Bundespolizei,” says Michael Thacker, executive VP of innovation and commercial business. “By establishing a strong industrial team within Germany, we are one step closer to ensuring the best offering for the police force's mission using local expertise.”

The Bell 525 is the world's first fly-by-wire commercial helicopter and could be the best replacement for the Bundespolizei. The aircraft was designed with law enforcement and parapublic users in mind and offers the latest enhancements in safety, reliability and operational efficiency making it the most modern aircraft in its class.

“Germany is modernising its infrastructure, and Bell is committed to working alongside our industrial team to contribute solutions that also yield a significant local benefit from knowledge sharing to diversifying the rotorcraft sector long-term,” adds Patrick Moulay, senior VP of international business.

Additionally, Bell has had a longstanding relationship with the German Armed Forces and German Federal Police. In 1956, the German Armed Forces bought the Bell 47 and in 1963 purchased its first UH-1. The reliable Bell UH-1 has been continuously in service since then.