Government Orders Six Top-of-the-Line Helicopters

Panama’s Ministry of Security placed an order for six AW139 medium twin engine helicopters with Italy’s AgustaWestland company for $60 million.

Vice Minister of Security, Alejandro Garuz, said the helicopters will be delivered in 2011 to patrol the border with Colombia and support air and naval bases in the fight against drug trafficking.

“Panama will be one of the countries that uses the most technology in the fight against drug trafficking,” he said, according to La Prensa.  Garuz also recognized the purchase of 18 radars and the donation of six used Italian speedboats, in addition to the direct purchase of the six helicopters.

According to the AgustaWestland release, four of the helicopters “will be equipped to perform a wide range of national and public security roles, one will be used for utility missions and the last aircraft will be used to transport senior government officials and other VIPs.”

AgustaWestland helicopters are the most expensive on the market.