The Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) Aircraft Operations Division has taken delivery of an Airbus H125 helicopter, courtesy of Metro Aviation. Built to tackle the unique, rugged demands of Texas law enforcement, this completion by the Shreveport, Louisiana-headquartered helicopter services provider sets a new technological benchmark for the industry through a tight architectural collaboration with Austin-based engineering firm Tejas Advanced Solutions.

This aircraft marks a historic first in the public safety aviation sector as the premier H125 to feature a permanently mounted and hardwired Starlink antenna.

Operating in conjunction with an onboard Teradek system, this integration creates a powerhouse triple-bonded, bidirectional data connection utilising both cellular networks and satellite communication. Designed to maintain continuous data resiliency in even the most remote, austere environments, the network proved near-flawless during rigorous flight testing, registering less than 0.5 per cent obstruction and maintaining an average signal quality of 98 per cent.

“Texas DPS is always on the cutting edge of aviation innovation and equipment. It consistently challenges our team to push the envelope, allowing us to deliver first-of-its-kind law enforcement configurations that set an entirely new standard for airborne law enforcement missions,” says Shawn Bruton, Metro Aviation Part 145 director of maintenance. “Bringing in a partner like Tejas Advanced Solutions ensures our teams can all go that extra mile and deliver truly ground-breaking solutions.”

Beyond the breakthrough data network, Metro Aviation outfitted the H125 cabin and airframe with a highly specialised, custom suite of tactical and safety gear, highlighted by: integration of the state-of-the-art Shotover ARS-750 airborne mapping system alongside a fourth generation Wescam MX-10 sensor and a high-output TL360 Trakka searchlight; a bespoke tactical layout featuring a custom hoist control panel, built-in Texas DPS cupholders and a specialised grab handle at the LH sliding door to ensure maximum operator safety and stability during complex hoist profiles; Metro's first installation of a forward-facing camera integrated into the tail boom tip cap, paired with an aft-facing camera mounted to the bottom of the boom; and a digital audio system from AEM, an Axnes wireless intercom system (ICS) for untethered crew communications, internal cabin camera, LifePort tail rotor illumination lights and Whelen 600 Series position lights.

“TXDPS has a well-earned reputation for being at the forefront of technology adoption and continuously expanding its mission capabilities in order to better serve the people of Texas. It is truly an honour to support an agency with such a forward-looking vision,” states David Magocsi, chief technology officer at Tejas Advanced Solutions. “We're equally proud of our partnership with Metro Aviation, whose expertise, professionalism and commitment to excellence make it possible to deliver such innovative solutions.”

With this cutting-edge delivery, Metro Aviation and Tejas Advanced Solutions reinforce their shared commitment to supplying the men and women of TXDPS with the ultimate tactical tools required to keep Texas communities safe.

“I am incredibly proud to welcome this new Airbus H125 helicopter into our fleet. This aircraft represents a significant investment in public safety and will enhance our ability to support law enforcement operations, search and rescue missions, and critical response efforts across Texas. Most importantly, it strengthens our commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of Texas,” shares Marcus Tomerlin, assistant chief pilot of the Texas DPS Airborne Law Enforcement Division. “I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to Metro Aviation and Tejas Advanced Solutions for their professionalism, expertise and dedication throughout the completion process. Their exceptional work ensures that our crews have the highest-quality aircraft and equipment available to safely and effectively carry out our mission.”