The naval branch of Défense Conseil International (DCI) group, DCI-NAVFCO, is to train the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) flight crews in the use of the helicopters Panther N3 search and rescue (SAR).

The training will be provided to three batches of six pilots, and two batches of six hoist operators and six rescue swimmers by six instructors in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Toulon, France.

The training programme will cover theoretical and practical aspects right from the aircraft system familiarisation to a night SAR missions’ qualification.

DCI-NAVFCO executive vice-president Admiral François Dupont said the RSNF would be provided with complete training to carry out SAR missions, even during difficult weather conditions.