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Bell, EGS to develop 429 law enforcement demonstrator
September 23, 2020 By Helicopters Staff
The new 429 demonstrator will primarily be showcased for law-enforcement and military agencies in Europe. (Image: Bell) Bell Textron today announced it has entered into a collaboration agreement with Elektroniksystem-und Logistik-GmbH (ESG), based in Munich, Germany, to install the latter company’s Mission Management System in a Bell 429 as a law enforcement demonstrator. This new demonstrator will be used to showcase the aircraft’s capabilities to policing and military markets in Europe and across the globe.
As a result of the new deal, helicopter operators will be able to purchase the ESG system equipped in a new helicopter directly from Bell. The company explains the surveillance system is one of the most-important items of equipment on a helicopter for police and military missions, with a consistent need to perform in emergency situations. ESG’s Mission Management System, according to Bell, has set the standard for police surveillance missions by providing state-of-the-art integration of mission equipment.
“With the Bell 429 certified to the latest certification standards in its class, combined with market-leading customer support, it was imperative to team up with a top German technology company such as ESG,” said Duncan Van De Velde, managing director, Europe and Russia, Bell. “Bell and ESG are committed to providing the best solution to the parapublic market and will work together to showcase this offering.”
For more than 50 years, ESG has been developing, integrating and operating complex and security-related electronic and IT systems for the military, public authorities and industry.
“We are excited for this collaboration with Bell,” said Daniel Högemann, Project Manager Mission & New Generation Helicopters, ESG. “By pairing our Mission Management System with the reliable Bell 429, we believe we can provide the best parapublic solution to the region.”
With over 400 Bell 429s around the globe and 100 located in Europe, Bell notes the aircraft has been one of the most successful light twin helicopters on the market since its certification in 2009. This includes its use by law enforcement agencies and for search-and-rescue missions with customers in Europe and around the world.
