Kawasaki Receives Order from National Police Agency for H145//BK117 D-3 Latest-model Helicopter

Tokyo, May 15, 2024 — Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced today the receipt of an order by the National Police Agency for H145//BK117 D-3 helicopter (hereafter, "BK117 D-3" or "D-3"), the newest model in the BK117 series. This is the fifth D-3 unit to be ordered for police use. It will be delivered in March 2026 and is scheduled to enter service in Niigata Prefecture in FY 2026.

The D-3 is capable of speeding to the scene with excellent mobility and is used as a police helicopter to collect information, patrol, and conduct search and rescue operations for people in distress in the event of a disaster. It has versatile and large rear clam shell doors that allows easy loading and unloading of stretchers, etc., a large cabin space with a full flat floor, and high hovering capability at high altitudes. These features allow for smooth emergency transport and make the D-3 ideal for rescue operations in mountainous areas.

In addition, the state-of-the-art avionics (electronics) are installed to improve safety performance and reduce pilot load, and the latest main rotor system (5-blade main rotor) reduces vibration and improves serviceability.

The BK117 is a medium-sized, twin-engine helicopter developed jointly with European company Airbus Helicopters, and is used for various purposes including police use, emergency medical services, firefighting, disaster relief, broadcasting, and personnel and cargo transport. Following delivery of the first model in 1983, this helicopter has been continually improved over the years, and thanks to the aircraft's outstanding technological strengths and high reliability, Kawasaki has successfully delivered 196 units as of today, and more than 1,900 worldwide with deliveries of Airbus Helicopters combined．

Kawasaki will continue to improve the BK117 helicopter, including the development of new optional equipment for various applications. Kawasaki will pursue further business opportunities around the world, taking advantage of the strong customer trust fostered through past deliveries, as well as the company's comprehensive customer support system encompassing everything from development to manufacturing, sales and after-sales services.