This new demonstrator will be used to showcase the aircraft’s capabilities to the police and military markets in Europe and across the globe.

Collaboration will enhance the market offering

“With the Bell 429 certified to the latest certification standards in its class, combined with market-leading customer support – it was imperative to team up with a top German technology company such as ESG,” said Duncan Van De Velde, Managing Director, Europe and Russia. “Bell and ESG are committed to providing the best solution to the para public market and will work together to showcase this offering.”

ESG is an international system and software company based in Munich, Germany. For more than 50 years, ESG has been developing, integrating, and operating complex and security-related electronic and IT systems for the military, public authorities and companies.

“We are excited for this collaboration with Bell,” said Daniel Högemann, Project Manager Mission and New Generation Helicopters, ESG. “By pairing our Mission Management System with the reliable Bell 429, we believe we can provide the best parapublic solution to the region.”

Surveillance system most important part for law enforcement

With over 400 Bell 429s around the globe and 100 located in Europe, the aircraft has been one of the most successful light twin helicopters on the market since its certification in 2009.The Bell 429 is a proven system that is operated by premier law enforcement and for search and rescue missions, with customers in Europe and around the world.

For police and military missions, the surveillance system is one of the most important items of equipment on the helicopter. To conduct the mission, the customer must have confidence that the system can perform in an emergency. ESG’s Mission Management System has set the standard for police surveillance missions by providing state-of-the-art integration of mission equipment. Customers will be able to have the option to purchase the ESG system with their new helicopter directly from Bell together as one purchase.

Earlier in September, Bell signed an agreement with Erickson to start the transfer of type certificates for the 214ST and B / B1 helicopters from Bell to Erickson.