Bell Textron has delivered an upgraded Bell 212 medium utility helicopter to the Royal Thai Navy as part of an operational life extension project aimed at enhancing the aircraft’s capabilities. The overhaul was conducted at Bell’s Asia Service Center located in Singapore and included substantial refurbishments to the helicopter’s fuel system, avionics, and exterior paint scheme, among several other enhancements designed to improve its performance, safety, and overall readiness for operational demands.
To commemorate the successful completion of this significant project, Bell presented a custom crystal plaque to both the Royal Thai Navy and the Royal Airport Service during a defense and security convention held in Bangkok.
Chris Schaefer, the vice president at Bell Global Customer Solutions, highlighted the importance of the Bell 212 to the Royal Thai Navy, noting its role as a vital component of the fleet for decades. Schaefer remarked that the helicopter has effectively supported a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue supporting such a respected partner as the Royal Thai Navy, underscoring the commitment to ensuring the aircraft’s sustained success.
Introduced in 1968, the Bell 212 has served various purposes, including aerial firefighting, transportation, and law enforcement operations. With nearly 900 units produced over a production span of three decades, the legacy of the 212 continues through its more modern counterpart, the Bell 412.
The specifications of the Bell 212 include a length of 57 feet (17 meters) and a rotor diameter of 48 feet (15 meters), operated by a two-person crew and capable of seating up to 14 passengers. Equipped with a powerful 1,800-horsepower engine, the helicopter can achieve a maximum flight speed of 120 knots (approximately 138 miles or 222 kilometers per hour), reach a service ceiling of 17,400 feet (5,304 meters), and offers a range of about 230 nautical miles (265 miles or 426 kilometers).
Globally, the Bell 212 finds itself in service with 20 international militaries, primarily utilized for training, logistics, and humanitarian missions, showcasing its enduring relevance and versatility in various operational scenarios.
