The Belgian Federal Police are to acquire a fifth MD Explorer after buying a pre-owned aircraft from a local operator.

The force started their journey with MD Helicopters in 1997 when they put three MD900 Explorers to work, supplementing these two years later with a pair of two single engine MD520s.  They then added a fourth MD Explorer in 2010 after buying a low-hour example in the market from Denmark.

This latest acquisition has been bought from Belgian based operator NHV, who previously operated it in France on an air ambulance contract.  It is a 2009 build with serial 900-00137, and will need an extensive conversion to its new law enforcement role before flying as “G-17” in due course.  NHV are increasingly focusing on offshore operations, but do still have three other MD Explorers in their fleet.

The Belgian Police also operate two Cessna 182 fixed wing and are involved in the operation of a further law enforcement MD Explorer for the Luxembourg Police.