First of all, interoperability and increased compatibility between systems have become increasingly important in the current international context, as countries are working more and more closely together. Second of all, these cooperative efforts require extremely complex, specialized mission equipment and more comprehensive support platforms. And last but not least, helicopters must be multifunctional and offer easily changeable configurations, maximum reliability and low operating costs.
As the figures show, Eurocopter has become the reference in the law enforcement and homeland security segment, with an international market share of over 50% and a European share of nearly 90%. Michael Rudolph, who is in charge of development at Eurocopter for the public services and EMS segment, explains why the Group has been so successful: “Eurocopter is constantly improving its product range, and has also introduced new equipment standards and the family concept(1). These have been major factors behind our impressive sales and our dominant position on the world market. The main priority of our product policy is to meet the needs of our customers. Missions are becoming more and more complex and varied. In this context, the operating costs of Eurocopter helicopters are comparatively low, which is a key factor when potential customers make their choice.”
Thanks to its complete range of specialized mission equipment, which in many cases has been developed in close cooperation with customers, Eurocopter is now tackling other issues as well: “Helicopters are mainly operated in dense urban areas, and thus draw a great deal of public attention,” explains Mr. Rudolph. “For these reasons, we are doing our utmost to reduce their environmental impact. In fact, environmental protection—reduced CO2 and NOx emissions, fuel efficiency, lower noise levels, and more effective industrial recycling processes—has been given top priority at Eurocopter, along with flight safety.”.

EC120, EC130 and AS350 B2, B3 and AS355 NP Ecureuil
Tried and Trusted Support
These twin- or single-engine light helicopters can be equipped with a plethora of systems, such as tactical radios, FLIR cameras and searchlights that are specifically adapted to many different types of missions. The helicopters are operated mainly in North and South America under the name AStar, and in Central Europe, certain regions of Asia and South Africa. Their primary missions are patrol flights, crime prevention (war on drugs) and border surveillance. All the aircraft are known for their high reliability and low operating and maintenance costs. The EC120 has also made a name for itself as the ideal machine for basic helicopter training.

EC135 and EC145
Multifunction Capabilities for a Wide Range of Missions
Because of their multifunction capabilities and spacious cabins, these twin-engine helicopters are used mainly in Europe for different types of police support missions, surveillance and reconnaissance flights, and multi-role missions such as rescue work and emergency medical services. The EC135 and EC145 both have modular kits that can be adapted to complex law enforcement and border patrol missions (tactical radio, FLIR camera, operator console, video transmission system, hoist, cargo hook, rappel descent system and stretchers). These specialized equipment packages have made both helicopters the reference platforms throughout the world in this market segment.
In addition, the higher payload of the EC145 has led to continued success on international markets, in particular in Eastern Europe.

EC155 and AS365 Dauphin Personnel and Equipment Transportation
With their increased payloads, both helicopters are particularly welladapted to the transport over long distances of elite tactical units (SWAT and RABIT), kit and equipment. They can hold eight to ten fully equipped people, and are used most often in Europe to patrol land and sea borders. In Asia, they are used mainly to patrol territorial waters and for firefighting missions.

EC225
A Versatile, High-Potential Helicopter
The heavy-lift EC225 is used mainly for sea rescues, troop and passenger transport, and for combating terrorism. It is particularly well adapted for use in extreme operating conditions and for missions covering large regions. Eurocopter has also developed a unique product in this category—the EC225 Water Bombing Helicopter (WBH), which is specialized in firefighting missions (see article, page 30). This configuration makes use of a modular kit, which means that the operator can still use the helicopter as a multifunctional platform.