The Portuguese Air Force’s (PoAF) AW101 medium / heavy three-engine helicopter fleet has achieved 10,000 flying hours while performing search and rescue, and fishery protection missions.

The PoAF received the first of 12 AW101s in late 2004. Equipped with a cabin mission console to control the 360° scan radar, forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera and a communications suite, the AW101 has saved 630 lives so far.

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In 2008, AgustaWestland received a 15-year contract from Locaçao de Equipamentos de Defesa SA (DEFLOC) to provide long-term support for the 12 AW101 helicopters operated by the PoAF.

Under the full in-service support (FISS) contract, the company provides second-level maintenance of the aircraft, and spares, repairs and technical support services.

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