ESEA Announces 1st Sales Contract With Thailand's MNRE

EC135 Helicopter chosen for exploration and surveillance missions

(Singapore, February 5, 2010) -- Eurocopter Southeast Asia (ESEA), subsidiary of the world's leading helicopter manufacturer, today announced its first sales contract with Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources & Environment (MNRE) for one EC135 aircraft. The sale follows the establishment of Eurocopter's first branch office in Thailand in December last year.

The EC135's outstanding performance, high versatility and low noise level make it an ideal tool for various public authority operations, ranging from patrol and airborne surveillance to Police and EMS missions. The light, twin-engine helicopter will be delivered to the MNRE in December 2010 and will be utilised for exploration & surveillance flights to help preserve natural resources and protect the natural environment of Thailand.

Dr. Saksit Tridech, Permanent Secretary of MNRE, Thailand said. "We are already operating helicopters manufactured by Eurocopter to increase the efficiency of MNRE's important missions covering exploration, surveillance and the protection of marine and forests resources. Additional aircraft, with twin engines, under aviation safety regulation, are now needed. The EC135 meets all our requirements and we look forward to the arrival of this new helicopter."

Dr. Bernhard Brenner, President of Eurocopter South East Asia added, "We are delighted by this vote of confidence from the MNRE. For nearly 20 years we have been supporting their fleet of AS350 helicopters, which emphasizes our long and successful partnership. Our recently-opened branch office in Bangkok will provide even better support for our customers in Thailand and across the region."

Many public authorities in countries such as Germany, France, UK and the United States are currently operating the EC135 helicopter. In Asia, the EC135 helicopter is already flying in different countries such as Thailand, India, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China.

Source : Eurocopter, an EADS N.V. company (Paris: EAD.PA) - click here for more information