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Enstrom sells two helicopters to Zambian Air Force

Enstrom Helicopter Corporation has sold two turbine powered 480B helicopters to the Zambian Air Force (ZAF). The contract, which was signed on February 23, 2023, by the Ministry of Defense, includes both the helicopters and training for ZAF pilots and personnel. The helicopters will be based in Lusaka and used for both training and utility missions.

“We are very excited to be supporting the ZAF missions,” said Dennis Martin, VP of Sales & Marketing, Enstrom. “The 480B will be a lot more efficient than some of the other light helicopters they were using, but with its performance and quick reconfiguration options, the 480B will provide the capability and flexibility they need.”

The helicopters will be equipped with cargo hooks and hard points for cameras, as well as the latest in Garmin avionics and glass panels. One helicopter will be supplied with a full glass cockpit, the second glass cockpit and analogues combined to allow pilot students to have experience on the various ZAF platforms.

Safomar Aviation Group South Africa coordinated and assisted Enstrom in the sale to the ZAF, including logistics, specifications, and configuration of the helicopters. Safomar operates a regional MRO and a flight school. The company maintains and operates Enstrom helicopters throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

“We are excited to have Enstrom back and under new management with exciting and excellent helicopter upgrades,” said Shai Shalem, Managing Director of Safomar. “It is an honor to have sold two of the first helicopters off the line under the new ownership. These 480Bs are just the right fit for military and Law Enforcement missions.”