Ørland Air Force Base is the second search-and-rescue (SAR) base to go-live with the new AW101-612.
The SAR Queen is taking over duties from the Sea King and this base marks a significant milestone as the first base to go-live separately from the 330 squadron’s home and support of the test and evaluation unit in Sola.
The rescue helicopter’s area of responsibility covers coastal sea lanes where weather conditions are known to be most challenging at times.
The next step is confirming the operational capability and resilience of the support solution. All crews, support staff, tooling, infrastructure, ground based training aids and spares have been established and tested in readiness for the commencement of operation. With an intense month of flying now planned, the aircraft, crews and supporting units will be put through their paces and will set the tone for operations ahead.
The next and most northern base, Banak, is anticipated to go-live at the end of 2021. This base will be another step forward as the program continues to make significant strides toward SAR operations across Norway and the harsh seas it protects, taking the AW101 into a new league of operation.
Operating with 4-6 crew, the AW101 can rescue more than 20 survivors in a single mission whilst simultaneously delivering specialized trauma treatment with a dedicated medical team. The wide cargo door and versatile rear ramp enable uncompromised recovery of survivors, stretchers and equipment.
Each aircraft is provided with an advanced SAR equipment package, including the multi-mode Osprey AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) surveillance radar system from Leonardo, which provides 360 coverage.
The large cabin doors and rear ramp provide easy access for personnel, survivors and equipment into the 27 cubic meter cabin which has stand-up head room throughout.
The AW101 Norway Training Center at Stavanger Sola Airport includes an AW101 full flight simulator which continues to support the training of Norwegian aircrew and is available to other AW101 customers.
The Royal Norwegian Air Force (RNoAF, Luftforsvaret) new search and rescue (SAR) helicopter, the Leonardo AW101-612, which entered service last year at Sola Airport is now also operating from Ørland. Last base, Bannak, planned for end of the year
A proud day to be part of the take over team. The busy morning to prep for the 12 o’clock handover and the poignant Seaking fly past to say goodbye.
Great helicopter and great radar :-)
https://www.helis.com/database/news/leonardo-osprey-aesa-radar/
Another milestone in my favorite helicopter project which I have been working on for 7 years. The coincidence with Norwegian National Day 17th May was never planned but nice all the same.
I had a part to play in the initial design, development and delivery of training on this aircraft from the factory a couple of years ago. I can honestly say it is a very competent and capable aircraft. Fitted with some of the most modern technology it was a joy to fly in and teach the #RNoAF.
Air Land & Sea Training
The AW101 is legitimately one of the best SAR platforms that has ever existed. The 101's capacity of around 20 personnel in addition to the crew makes this the ideal current long range SAR helicopter. Leonardo Helicopters Breeze-Eastern Corporation #NAWSARH
nice shot