as350_b3e

Botswana’s Police Service has placed an order with Airbus Helicopters for three AS350 B3e ‘Ecureuil’ helicopters.

Planned to be operated by Botswana’s police air support branch, the helicopters will be equipped with night-vision equipment for night-time operations and other law enforcement equipment.

Airbus Helicopters said that the helicopters will serve Botswana’s requirements for an expanded airborne law enforcement and crime prevention force.

"The helicopters will serve Botswana’s requirements for an expanded airborne law enforcement and crime prevention force."

The company expects to start delivery of the new aircraft later this year.

Airbus Helicopters Southern Africa general manager Arnaud Montalvo said: "We are proud to continue our relationship with the Botswana police air support unit and that it has selected the AS350 B3e, which has a proven pedigree in police missions, especially in hot and high conditions typical of the much of Botswana."

Botswana Police Air Support Branch pilots and mechanics will be provided with training on the AS350 B3e helicopters.

Powered by Turboméca Arriel 2D turbine engine, the AS350 B3e is a member of Airbus Helicopters’ Ecureuil family.

Airbus Helicopters has sold more than 5,800 Ecureuil family aircraft so far to around 1,800 operators in 120 countries.

The company’s AS350 B2, B3 and B3e variants are in-service with police in South Africa, Namibia and Angola.

Image: The new helicopters will be equipped with night-vision and other law enforcement equipment. Photo: courtesy of Airbus Helicopters Southern Africa Pty Ltd.