The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has received its first AW139 medium twin-engine helicopter from AgustaWestland.

The new AW139 will undergo maritime operations including search and rescue, coastal patrol and law enforcement around Malaysia’s extensive coastline.

Equipment of the new AW139 includes a FLIR, NVG compatible cockpit and a four-axis automatic flight control system with SAR modes.

AW139 is a new-generation medium twin-turbine helicopter designed with inherent multirole capability and flexibility of operation.

With a maximum range of 1,061km, the helicopter has an endurance capacity of more than five hours with a maximum cruising speed of 165kt.

MMEA is expected to receive an additional two helicopters in 2011.