US-based Rainier Heli International has signed an agreement to offer Kaman Aerosystems’ K-MAX leasing solutions to customers.

Rainier provides lease and lease-to-purchase programmes to cater to the global specific needs of helicopter operators.

Rainier Heli International CEO Lon Halvorson said: “Rainier has operated a K-MAX in the US and abroad performing fire-fighting and utility missions for more than 20 years.

“As a current owner operator of multiple helicopters, we understand the outstanding value proposition K-MAX offers to the external lift market, including firefighting and power line construction.”

The single-engine and single-seated K-MAX is a rugged low-maintenance aircraft with a counter-rotating rotor system. It is optimised for external load operations.

“We expect this partnership will allow us to further penetrate emerging markets around the world with new production aircraft through a new financing alternative.”

The aircraft is designed specifically for vertical reference flight, and it can carry up to 6,000lb.

Kaman Aerosystems business development senior director Roger Wassmuth said: “We are very pleased that Rainier has decided to invest in the future success of the K-MAX programme with this important milestone.

“We expect this partnership will allow us to further penetrate emerging markets around the world with new production aircraft through a new financing alternative.”

Kaman founder and former CEO Charlie Kaman led the development of the K-MAX.

Kaman Aerosystems is a division of the Aerospace segment of Kaman Corporation.

The company’s products include aircraft bearings and components, safe and arm solutions for missile and bomb systems for the US and allied militaries.

Rainier Heli International leases a fleet of light, medium twin and heavy helicopters.