Bell Textron have announced that they have signed a purchase agreement for six Bell 505 aircraft for the Jamaican Defence Force.
The newly acquired Bell 505s will be configured to support Public Safety missions in country and be used by the Force’s Caribbean Military Aviation School (CMAS) to train international rotorcraft pilots.
“Bell and JDF share a rich history of more than 55 years, and we are committed to delivering the most advanced and economically viable aircraft on the market,” said Nicholas Peffer, Managing Director, Latin America.
“The Bell 505 is a proven asset for Public Safety operations around the world. We look forward to growing our long-standing relationship with JDF and sustaining their forces with the highest quality aircraft for many more years to come.”
This new aircraft delivery will grow JDF’s current fleet to 10 Bell helicopters, which serve in search and rescue missions, medical evacuations, natural disaster relief, national security and military training operations.
Bell say about the aircraft:
“With a speed of 125 knots (232 km/h) and useful load of 1,500 pounds (680 kg), the Bell 505 is Bell’s newest five-seat aircraft designed for safety, efficiency and reliability using advanced avionics technology. Its similarities with the Bell 429 platform allow for a smooth pilot transition as JDF begins training operations. With a Garmin G1000, the platform shares similar avionics with JDF’s Fixed Wing Trainer aircraft and reduces pilot workload, enhancing the students’ learning experience.”
Many Jamaicans regret the day they gained independence. Whilst there are obviously a variety of reasons I suspect the defence force might benefit from being part of something much bigger.
Seeing i am equivalent to one sixth of the an air has me pondering weather to declare my self Generalissimo .
Man forgot i commented on this and was going to boast again , and what is worse , the comment should read whether to declare my self and one sixth of an air-force . Anyhow this chopper is the common mans Jet Ranger .