Airbus will send a new H225 helicopter to Japan to replace an older aircraft as part of the Tokyo Fire Department‘s modernization program. The acquisition supports high operational readiness across various missions, such as aerial firefighting, disaster response, and search and rescue, Airbus said Monday.
The company noted that the new aircraft can provide immediate medical care with its lifesaving equipment onboard. It also has a built-in search and rescue mode for rapid target fire detection and a belly-mounted water tank for swift firefighting response.
Aircraft Firefighting Support
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Airbus Helicopters’ managing director in Japan, noted the nearly 60 years of support that the company’s aircraft have provided to the department’s missions. “With its proven versatility and endurance across all conditions, the H225 is well equipped to support their lifesaving work for years to come,” the company’s executive said.
The Tokyo Fire Department started its aerial firefighting missions in 1967, when it acquired an Allouette III. The department now operates a fleet of three H225 and three AS365 aircraft.
In addition to the department, the Japan Ministry of Defense and semi-public agencies operate 24 H225 helicopters for various uses, including the transport of goods and personnel.