Japan’s Nara and Miyazaki prefectures place new orders for Subaru Bell 412EPX

Image of Subaru Bell 412 EXP helicopter landing

Japan’s helicopter fleet is expanding in a bid to advance its emergency response capabilities

Bell Flight has announced that Japan’s Nara Prefecture and Miyazaki Prefecture signed purchase agreements for two Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters with Subaru Corporation. Scheduled for delivery in 2025, the 412EPX aircraft are expected to be used for firefighting, rescue, emergency, and medical operations.

The two prefectures currently utilize the Bell 412EP, meaning the transition to the Subaru Bell 412EPX should be smooth, considering the commonalities they share. With its extended hover ceiling, increased load capacity, robust main rotor gearbox and dry run capability, the Subaru Bell 412EPX will be well equipped to deliver efficient operational performance.

In 2021, Subaru Corporation announced the delivery of its Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopter to Japan’s National Policy Agency, marking the world’s first delivery of the model.

In recent news, the Guatemalan military acquired a Bell 429 to enhance Guatemala’s recovery and response capabilities.