Nova Systems’ next-generation mission system solution has been successfully tested, delivered and accepted into service for two AW139 law enforcement and search and rescue (SAR) helicopters, operated by Bristow Netherlands B.V. for the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard.
CEO Dean Rosenfield said Nova’s Systems' integration capabilities delivered a best-in-class solution which provides the most advanced tools to deliver maritime safety and security.
“The delivery of this bespoke mission system is part of a new era of search and rescue delivery and demonstrates Nova Systems’ expertise and growing capabilities in systems integration,” Mr Rosenfield said.
“Working closely with Bristow, Nova Systems designed and integrated a bespoke mission system that provides consistent capabilities throughout the fleet and is able to continually evolve with technology changes or new requirements.
“The same technologies and design will also be used to support further mission system integration contracts with Bristow for the second-generation UK Search and Rescue program and Irish Search and Rescue service.”
In conjunction with Bristow, Nova Systems developed a solution incorporating leading-edge technologies and operator interfaces that laid a foundation for Bristow’s future vision for search and rescue operations.
Nova Systems International Managing Director, Gareth Dyer, said: “Our collaboration with Bristow sets the standard for future law enforcement and search and rescue operations.
“With a full suite of tactical communication and leading-edge surveillance and detection technologies – supported by Nova Systems-led certification and training – our mission system provides Bristow with an enhanced ability to perform the coast guard and search and rescue mission more effectively.
“We have an important and growing role to play in supporting the parapublic market across the Atlantic and in Europe through our modification capability and Special Mission aircraft focus.”
To deliver on this complex contract, Nova Systems leveraged the technical and engineering expertise of its design, Systems Integration Lab and production capabilities based in Corsham, UK, supported by a global network of technology partners and suppliers. Nova also provided on-the-ground support to the Bristow installation team in Lafayette, USA.
Nova Systems’ personnel, including a dedicated Flight Test crew, conducted ground and flight testing to verify the safety and airworthiness of the Mission System solution, and ensure the operational requirements were delivered.
“Our Special Mission Aircraft Solution provides Bristow with a common mission system architecture that enables similar capabilities throughout its fleet of search and rescue helicopters which simplifies training and availability of this vital mission capability fleet-wide,” Mr Dyer said.
“We look forward to continuing to support the mission system through the operating life of the contract via an innovative technical through life support agreement, along with other critical search and rescue contracts currently being delivered in the United Kingdom and Ireland.”
Bristow Group’s media release is available here.