AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce that the Royal Thai Army has taken delivery of two AW139 twin-engine helicopters. Ordered at the end of 2012, these aircraft will perform transport and utility missions across the nation. The contract, which also includes a comprehensive maintenance and training package, marks the entrance of the AW139 into Thailand’s military helicopter market and further expands the success of the type in the country.

The Royal Thai Army adds to a growing number of military customers who have ordered or are already operating the AW139 for a wide range of roles including VIP and government transport, utility, search and rescue, emergency medical service, troop transport, border patrol, law enforcement, special operations and homeland security. The armed forces of Ireland, Qatar, UAE and Italy just a few of those operating the AW139 today.

The AW139 delivers best-in-class performance with a maximum cruise speed of 165 knots (306 kph), a range in excess of 500 nm (927 km), endurance of 5 hours and superior hover performance in hot conditions. It also has the largest cabin in its class, which can accommodate up to 15 passengers. The unobstructed cabin design allows maximum flexibility for different seating configurations and the transport of equipment. The baggage compartment, provides a massive 3.4 cubic meters (120 cubic feet) of storage which is easily accessible from both the cabin and outside the helicopter.

The AW139 is the world’s best-selling helicopter in its class and the only new generation aircraft in its class in service today. Over 620 AW139s are now in service worldwide. Over 200 customers from approximately 60 countries have ordered over 750 AW139 helicopters so far.