Leonardo-Finmeccanica is introducing the light-single AW009 helicopter to U.S. law enforcement units at this week’s Airborne Law Enforcement Association annual exhibition, taking place in Savannah, GA

With continued strong interest from airborne law enforcement operators, Leonardo will launch several days of flight demonstrations and trials in August.

The AW009, a commercial evolution of the SW-4 light single turbine helicopter, features a range of product enhancements making it an ideal solution for airborne law enforcement. New characteristics include:

• A redesigned vibration absorber system for a smoother and more comfortable ride, as well as improvements to the hydraulic system;
• An advanced Genesys avionics display Integrated into the cockpit, ensuring excellent situational awareness and a user friendly interface, while maintaining pilot visibility;
• And an optional Rolls-Royce M250-C30P engine will provide enhanced power handling for the most demanding missions. The Rolls-Royce M250-C20R/2 (SP) engine still remains standard on the AW009 and has shown reliably high performance for existing operators.

Together with its U.S. partner, AAL USA of Huntsville, Ala., Leonardo-Finmeccanica expects avionics integration and FAA certification to be completed within 2016. Deliveries will begin in 2017.