The Swedish National Police has signed a purchase agreement with Bell Helicopter for seven B429 rotorcraft. The aircraft will be used for police oper-ations including surveillance, reconnaissance, maintaining public order, aerial photography, rescue aid missions and police transportation. The Swedish unit was the first and only helicopter unit in the country when it began operating Bell 47 G-2A in 1964 to complete its duties. In addition to the new 429 fleet, the Police currently has a Bell 206 JetRanger that serves as a flight trainer at the organisation's flight school.
The aircraft will be heavily customised in Bell's Piney Flat facilities prior to 2015 delivery.
The 429 has already proved popular with operators carrying out HEMS missions, owing to its two litter capability. In this case, the Police will be able to take advantage of the aircraft's glass cockpit, gps approaches, full IFR capability, and large 60 inch doors.