Finnish Super Pumas handed over

The Finnish Border Guard (Rajavartiolaitos) has taken delivery of its two new AS332 L1e rescue and surveillance helicopters. The Super Pumas were handed over at Airbus Helicopters' Marignane plant in southern France on December 21st. The acquisition has been partially financed and implemented through the European Union's External Borders Fund, EBF.

The two helicopters are expected to arrive in Finland by the end of February and March, respectively, as soon as the training phase in France is over. They are planned to enter service at the Helsinki base in June 2016, replacing the current Bell 412s in service there. The main tasks will include air rescue operations, border security tasks, and ambulance missions, as well as support for various authorities.

The Border Guard is currently operating Super Pumas at the Turku base, and they have gained a good operating experience over the years. When compared to the existing machines, the new L1e has a complete set of next-generation avionics and navigation equipment, thermal imaging, autopilot, and radio equipment. They are also equipped with a de-ice system, which enables all-weather Search and Rescue operations.

The three Super Pumas that are currently operating in Turku will be upgraded and modernized over the next three years.