Peru's helicopter acquisition

The Fuerza Aérea del Perú (FAP, Peruvian Air Force) is seeking a replacement for its fleet of Bell 212s and Bo105s operated by Grupo 3 from Lima-Jorge Chavez Intl/Callao.

Recently, the review of three candidates for twelve new helicopters was concluded. Leonardo's AW139 scored highest on the technical aspects, but is also the most expensive.

Bell Helicopter Textron's Bell 412EXP scored lowest on the technical review but is somewhat cheaper to buy. Lastly, Airbus' H145M scored second place in the technical review, closely behind the AW139, but is the cheapest option of the three.

We must add, that the package for AW139 also includes a Combat Search and Rescue suite. Anyway, this will provide food for thought for the selection committee! last years, as a stop-gap measure, FAP acquired two Bo105LSA-3 from the Peruvian National Police.

The new helicopters will be bought in two batches of six and the decision and USD 193 million contract is expected to be finalised this year.

Photo credit: Bryan Luna, Bell 212 Grupo 3