The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has significantly enhanced its aerial capabilities by placing an order for three more Airbus H225 helicopters. This latest acquisition brings the total number of H225s in the JCG’s fleet to 18, solidifying their position as the largest Super Puma operator in Japan.
The JCG began expanding its H225 fleet in December 2023 with the acquisition of three helicopters, followed by another in February 2024. These versatile workhorses will play a vital role in supporting the JCG’s diverse missions, including territorial coastal patrols, maritime law enforcement operations, and disaster relief efforts across the country.
Japan currently flys 24 H225s. These are operated by Japan’s Ministry of Defence or parapublic operators for various search and rescue missions, VIP, fire-fighting, as well as passenger and goods transportation.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet grew in importance as a research tool, he helped design the company's Forecast Intelligence Center and currently coordinates the EMarket Alert newsletters for clients. Richard also manages social media efforts, including two new blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, covering defense systems and international issues, and Flight Plan, which focuses on commercial aviation and space systems. For over 30 years, Richard has authored the Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International) services. The two books provide detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database that tracks all the contractors involved in the programs covered in the FI library. More recently he was appointed Manager, Information Services Group (ISG), a new unit that encompasses developing outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
