The Agusta Westland AW169 helicopter of Leonardo-Finmeccanica (www.leonardocompany.com) has further strengthened its presence in the market, with new orders from existing operators and a new customer in Korea.

Helikorea has ordered two aircraft for Emergency Medical Service (EMS) missions in the Republic of Korea, where Leonardo has experienced significant success in recent years.

About 50 helicopters of various types are now in service or on order for military and commercial roles ranging from naval applications, search and rescue, law enforcement, firefighting and VIP/corporate transportation. The contract, which includes an option for one additional aircraft, is for deliveries by the end of 2016.

Leonardo has also signed a Framework Agreement with Specialist Aviation Services (SAS) of the UK for six additional Agusta Westland AW169s. These aircraft, which are expected to be delivered between 2017 and 2019, will be used to expand SAS emergency medical service operations and serve the rapidly growing offshore wind-farm support market.