The order follows a previous order placed in
2019 by the Israeli Ministry of Defence as part of a ‘comprehensive training
program’ which covered the supply of seven US-produced AW119Kx helicopters and
a 20-year support package. In 2020, the U.S. Department of Defence awarded a
contract for up to 130 AW119s to replace the ageing TH-57 Sea Ranger as the
primary training helicopter for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
The aircraft can be equipped for multiple
roles, including transport, helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS), search
and rescue (SAR), and utility and security operations. The helicopter is
powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B-37A engine. It has a maximum
cruise speed of 243km and a maximum range of 922km.
