The H145D3’s five-blade main rotor and enclosed tail rotor make it much quieter, especially over sensitive urban areas. Photo: Babcock.
The South Australian Police Force (SAPOL) has partnered with Babcock Australasia to unveil a new Airbus twin-engined helicopter for SAPOL’s PolAir aviation fleet.
The new H145D3 will replace the current SAPOL Bell 412, which has been in service for 30 years. With H145 training underway, the B412 will continue in service until the new machine is ready to take over.
The SA Government describes the H145 as the quietest helicopter in its class. It has a five-blade main rotor and an enclosed ‘’fenestron’’ tail rotor to significantly reduce noise, and is equipped with advanced sensors.
The machine is lighter and more fuel efficient, and will be solely dedicated to police to rapidly respond to incidents such as search-and-rescue missions on land and at sea, airborne law enforcement and supporting road safety.
The new addition will join the State Rescue Helicopter Service (SRHS), a 24/7 service shared between SAPOL and SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) to provide critical emergency response across the state.
The government has extended its SRHS contract with Babcock Australasia for a further four years, and invested in an additional Bell 412EP helicopter due to enter service for SAAS by the end of 2024.
SA Emergency Services Minister Dan Cregan said the government was supporting SA Police with the latest equipment to tackle crime and keep the community safe.
“This state-of-the-art technology will help achieve a new standard in aerial law enforcement,” he said.
“Increasing officers’ ability to respond quickly – with reduced noise for residents below – is an important part of the boost to our emergency helicopter service.”
Babcock Australasia CEO Andrew Cridland said the company was pleased to be able to deliver this latest-generation aircraft with a configuration designed in collaboration with SAPOL to best suit its needs.
“This new twin-engine helicopter is quieter, faster, lighter, more manoeuvrable and more fuel efficient than the outgoing aircraft and will provide a critical uplift in capability for South Australia police,” he said.
“We are proud to be working alongside the State Rescue Helicopter Service and the community to create a safe and secure world, together.”
