The Delaware State Police (DSP) has signed a purchase agreement with Bell Textron for two Bell 429s. In addition to law enforcement operations, the helicopter will aid in the completion of emergency medical services and search and rescue operations for the US state.

“DSP greatly values its long-standing relationship with Bell and we are most proud of our 429 aircraft. The citizens of and visitors to our state rely on us to transport critically sick and injured patients, locate the missing and lost, while providing aerial support for police-related missions. In turn, we rely on Bell to provide us with top-tier equipment and helicopters to fulfil this role. Bell answers this call time and time again,” says aviation unit commander captain Jeff Whitmarsh.

A long-time Bell operator, the DSP is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. “This year, Bell joins in DSP's celebration of an incredible achievement,” says Lane Evans, director, North America sales. “The Bell 429 aircraft will be the second Bell 429 to join DSP's fleet and continues to be critical to providing law enforcement services to its more than one million citizens and visitors. We look forward to building our rich history well into the future.”