Bristow Group will be providing a search and rescue helicopter service to the Netherlands Coastguard from November this year. The Netherlands’ Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) has awarded Bristow a 10-year contract for a 24/7 all-weather SAR capability, with the agreement also including two one-year extension options.
Under the deal, Bristow will provide dedicated SAR-equipped AW189 helicopters and suitably qualified crews for two operational bases, located at the Den Helder and Midden Zeeland airports. It will also introduce new technologies such as mission management and data-link systems to enhance interoperability with other Dutch agencies involved in SAR missions.
In addition, the Bristow teams will support the coastguard’s response to disasters and other incidents as required.
Alan Corbett, the company’s senior vice-president for Europe, Africa, Middle East, Asia and search and rescue, said: “We are honoured the DMO has placed their trust in Bristow with the award of this prestigious contract. We look forward to our return to the Netherlands and providing this valuable service for the Netherlands Coastguard.
“As the leading provider of government SAR services, we will provide a modern fleet of helicopters along with highly experienced aircrews and engineers to provide an unmatched, life-saving capability as the best value to the government.”
Bristow’s president and CEO, Chris Bradshaw, added: “This award confirms the differentiating value proposition we are able to bring based on our proven experience, commitment to innovation and sustainability, and enhanced capabilities that we deliver to our clients worldwide.”
Bristow provides SAR services in countries such as Guyana, Norway, Surinam, Trinidad and the United States. It also operates the HM Coastguard helicopter SAR service for the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
