LINKOPING, Sweden, Dec. 08, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Japan Coast Guard has awarded Saab a contract for two Saab 340Bplus Search and Rescue (SAR) aircraft. The aircraft will be extensively modified at the Saab facilities in Linkoping and delivery of both aircraft will take place at the end of 2006.
The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has awarded Saab, through its Japanese agent Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, a contract for two Saab 340Bplus aircraft modified for search and rescue operations, together with training, spare parts and logistics support.
The aircraft, known as the Saab 340SAR-200, will be specially configured to meet JCG's requirements including modifications for a 360-degree scanning search radar and a FLIR, wide observer windows, rescue equipment and life raft drop systems, system operator consoles, expanded communication systems and a sophisticated flight and operations management system. The rear of the cabin is arranged in a quick-change layout, carrying either passengers or cargo.
"The Japan Coast Guard has achieved an excellent operational record from its existing two Saab 340SAR-200 based at the Kansai Airport near Osaka. The additional two Saab 340SAR-200 aircraft will allow for increased maritime safety coverage throughout Japan's immense territorial waters as well as expanded transportation capability," said Saab Aircraft Leasing Vice President Asia-Pacific Morgan Falkengren.
The pre-owned Saab 340Bplus aircraft will be provided by Saab Aircraft Leasing and the modifications required for search and rescue operations will be performed at the Saab Aircraft AB facilities in Linkoping, Sweden.
Saab Aircraft Leasing manages a portfolio of about 250 Saab 340 and Saab 2000 aircraft leased to 25 airlines around the world. With 35 employees, its head-office is in Washington, DC and regional offices in Stockholm, Sweden and Tokyo, Japan.
Saab Aircraft AB, with offices in Linkoping, Sweden and Washington, D.C. supports and maintains the combined Saab 340 and Saab 2000 fleet of over 500 aircraft in service with operators around the world.
Saab is one of the world's leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defense, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.
For further information please contact: Michael Magnusson, CEO, Saab Aircraft Leasing Tel: +1 703 406-7220; Fax: +1 703 406-7227 Michael.Magnusson@sal.saabus.com
Morgan Falkengren, VP Asia-Pacific, Saab Aircraft Leasing Tel. +81 3 3792-4300; Fax: +81 3 3792-4315 Morgan.Falkengren@sal.saab.se
John Belanger, PR and Comms. Saab Aircraft AB Telephone +46 13 183101 John.Belanger@saabaircraft.com
Encl. Saab 340SAR-200 photos courtesy JCG
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