Finnish Border Guard adds two Super Pumas

The Finnish Border Guard is expanding its Eurocopter fleet with the acquisition of two additional AS332 L1 Super Puma helicopters. The purpose of the acquisition is to replace the AB/B412 helicopters. The main tasks performed on the new helicopter will be maritime SAR, border surveillance, other rescue tasks and patient transportation as well as executive assistance for other government agencies.

With deliveries scheduled for 2015, the new rotorcraft will be configured as the AS332 L1e version, incorporating the integrated advanced cockpit and automatic flight control systems used on Eurocopter’s EC225 helicopter.

The capability of the Helsinki Air Patrol Flight will be enhanced because of the helicopters’ modern equipment such as the de-icing system that allows operation in all weather conditions, a four-axis autopilot, new generation EO/IR -system as well as extensive maritime SAR and medical equipment. New equipment and improved performance will benefit especially maritime SAR capabilities in the Gulf of Finland region.

The Finnish Border Guard already operates three AS332L1 rotorcraft, which are assigned to its Turku base on the southwest coast of Finland. The service has logged nearly 25 years experience with these Super Pumas – validating the service’s reputation for professionalism and effectiveness, while also confirming the helicopter’s capabilities in even the most extreme environment.

The overall cost estimate is 62 million euro as per the order authorization from the Finnish parliament. The project is partially funded by the External Borders Fund, EBF.