Tawazun set for 200 VRT helicopters for Abu Dhabi

CEO H.E. Tareq Abdul Rahim Al Hosani, speaking at the Dubai Airshow said: “We believe in the capabilities of VRT’s product, including the multipurpose, single light engine helicopter featuring various design advantages in safety, performance and cost effectiveness, which drove the start of negotiations with UAE entities.

He added, “Tawazun is expected to secure contracts for the first batch of 100 units by mid-2020, with an expected delivery date over the next 5-7 years. Additionally, this strategic deal will result in the transfer of capabilities and operations to UAE, as part of our commitment to enable the industry for future growth.”

H.E. Major General Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, said: “As long-term strategic partners, Tawazun Economic Council and Abu Dhabi Police have a mutual commitment towards safety and efficiency, with excellence at the core, in line with the leadership’s directives.

“The addition of the VRT Helicopters to Abu Dhabi Police’s fleet will help us further elevate our competencies in the areas of search and rescue, ambulatory support, transportation and beyond. We look forward to advancing our capabilities even further with the addition of the unique set of solutions VRT has to offer, in line with global standards,” he added.

H.E. Major Staff Pilot Stephen Toumajan, General Manager National Risk & Rescue and Joint Aviation Commander said: “VRT Helicopters have a unique set of capabilities designed for use in urban environments and SAR, ISR, Medical Transport or VIP. We believe the advanced technologies of the single engine coaxial rotor system are perfectly suited for Abu Dhabi and worldwide deployments.”

Also commenting, H.E. Nader Al Hammadi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation, said: “VRT Helicopters are ideal for the wide range of services offered by ADA, including passenger support, crop spraying, aerial construction, seismic support, fire-fighting and other oil and gas operational activities. We look forward to working closely with Tawazun to finalize this collaboration and look forward to the forthcoming agreements and future utilization of the VRT technology as a result of this partnership.”

During the Dubai Airshow 2019, Tawazun Strategic Development Fund, the investment arm of Tawazun Economic Council, announced that it is making a joint investment with Russian Helicopters worth $400 million to be injected into VRT. The deal will result in Tawazun owning a 50% stake of the Russian Helicopter subsidiary.