The National Police Agency (NPA) in Japan has chosen Sikorsky’s S-92(R) helicopters to be deployed in its search and rescue missions and special operations.

The S-92(R) is already used to transport the heads of state in a number of countries and by the UK for ocean rescue operations – 100 have been delivered so far.

The 26,500lb twin-engine helicopter can fly at a maximum cruise speed of 151kt up to a range of 539nm.

The S-92 has been certified by both the US Federal Aviation Administration and the European Aviation Safety Agency.