Sarajevo Canton acquires first helicopter unit with Subaru Bell purchase

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Sarajevo Canton acquires first helicopter unit with Subaru Bell purchase

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Brandon Williamson Vice President Market Leader of Infrastructure/Aviation Group | AviationPros

By Sky Industry News

Jul 31, 2024

Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), announced today the signing of a purchase agreement for a SUBARU Bell 412EPX helicopter with the Sarajevo Canton Ministry of Interior. This acquisition marks the establishment of the agency’s first helicopter unit, intended to support medical transport, citizen evacuation, and assistance during natural disasters and incidents.

“Through great collaboration with the Sarajevo Canton police force and government, we’re excited to support a well-earned milestone for their force and provide their first-ever helicopter,” said Danny Maldonado, chief commercial officer, Commercial Business, Bell. “We are thrilled to work with Sarajevo Canton and look forward to seeing the incredible lifesaving and firefighting efforts they carry out with the SUBARU Bell 412EPX platform.”

The signing ceremony occurred on June 4, 2024, at the Sarajevo Canton's Ministry of Interior (MoI). It was attended by representatives from the United States Embassy, cantonal and Federation (FBiH) entity authorities, and other dignitaries. The contract was signed by Admir Katica, Minister of Interior of Sarajevo Canton, and Vedran Kljucanin, Director of "SHOT," Bell’s supplier and regional Independent Representative (IR).

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“This day will be remembered in history as the day when the KS MoI concluded the procurement of the first helicopter for the citizens of Sarajevo Canton but also for all Bosnia and Herzegovina,” stated Minister Katica.

Katica emphasized numerous obstacles faced during procurement while underscoring its necessity for residents' benefit. “Never again will citizens depend on goodwill or political decisions when they need emergency medical transport or assistance in floods, landslides, fires, earthquakes or any unforeseen situation. Our helicopter unit will be first to aid our citizens.”

Certified in 2018, the SUBARU Bell 412EPX has an increased maximum internal weight capacity of 12,200 lbs., external weight capacity up to 13,000 lbs., and can carry up to 5,000 lbs. using a cargo hook. The platform allows significant cargo and personnel transportation with its ability to carry up to 5,385 lbs., benefiting from enhanced main rotor gearbox dry run capability.