Japan’s Aichi prefecture has signed a purchase agreement for a single Bell 412EPI that will serve in the fire fighting and disaster relief missions.

“The selection of the Bell 412EPI will enhance Aichi’s capability and help ensure the safety and security of citizens throughout the region,” said Richard Thornley, Bell Helicopter’s managing director in Japan.

Flightglobal’s Fleets Analyzer shows that the Aichi Prefectural Police Department operates four helicopters with an average age of 16 years.

It has two Kawasaki-built BK117s, one AgustaWestland AW109, and one Bell 412EP.

Source: FlightGlobal.com