Disaster Relief Helicopter Delivered to Ehime Prefecture

Tokyo, March 14, 2016 — Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced today that it has delivered a BK117C-2 helicopter to Ehime Prefecture. It is the 13th C-2 model to be used for firefighting and disaster relief. The new helicopter will be scheduled to replace an existing BK117 helicopter deployed by the Ehime Fire Fighting Disaster Prevention Air Corps.

The Kawasaki BK117 helicopter was developed jointly by Kawasaki and European helicopter manufacturer Airbus Helicopters, formerly Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm. The BK117 is a medium-sized twin-engine multi-purpose helicopter that is used for a wide range of applications such as broadcasting, transporting cargo and passengers, fighting fires, police work, emergency medical services and more. The large clamshell doors at the rear of the BK117 facilitate the quick transfer of stretchers and other equipment in and out of the helicopter. Its spacious cabin, compact body and superior mobility have earned the BK117 high marks around the world for uses in firefighting, disaster relief and emergency medical services.

Since its market debut in 1983, the BK117 has undergone continuous improvements making it the bestselling model in the world. Kawasaki’s outstanding technological know-how and proven track record have resulted in 169 helicopters delivered as of March 14, 2016. Together with those delivered by Airbus Helicopters, there are over 1,200 in use around the globe.

Kawasaki continues to maintain its competitive edge with proven superior technological capabilities and outstanding customer services as it actively markets its BK117C-2 helicopters.