Home Air Guatemalan Air Force receives two Bell 412EPX helicopters

Guatemalan Air Force receives two Bell 412EPX helicopters

Photo: Bell Textron

The Guatemalan Air Force has taken delivery of two new Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters from Bell Textron in a ceremony that coincided with the marking of 101st anniversary of the air force at La Aurora International Airport.

The helicopters are part of an indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract signed between Bell and the US Army earlier this year.

The Guatemalan Air Force already operates versions of the Bell 206, 212, 407, 412 and UH-1. The 412EPX is the latest version of the 412 aircraft.

412EPX introduces a main rotor gearbox which improves horsepower and maximum weight capacity, enabling the aircraft to transport more supplies and perform operations more efficiently. The model has a maximum internal weight of 12,200 lbs, external weight of 13,000 lbs and up to 5,000 lbs of goods with a cargo hook.

The helicopter’s multi-mission capabilities make it a popular choice for military customers, with more than 54 percent of the Bell 412 global fleet deployed in military and para-public missions worldwide.

“We are excited to introduce the 412EPX into the Guatemalan Air Force,” said Major General Henry Yovani Reyes, Guatemala’s defense minister.

“The aircraft will support missions including disaster response, humanitarian relief, and other utility needs.”

“We are honored to bring the most modern version of the Bell 412 to Guatemala,” said Bell’s Carl Coffman. “Turnaround from signature to delivery is a statement to the men and women supporting this aircraft at every level of the business, and a testament to the efficiency of the IDIQ contract between Bell and the US Army Multinational Aviation Special Programs Office.”