Taiwan’s National Airborne Service Corps modernises Airbus Helicopter fleet to enhance rescue operations

Taiwan’s National Airborne Service Corps, operating under the authority of the Ministry of Interior, has recently signed a significant modernisation contract with Airbus Helicopters for its AS365 helicopter fleet, aimed at improving performance and ensuring compliance with latest safety standards.  The fleet recapitalisation contract involves upgrading NASC’s existing four helicopters to the latest AS365N3+ version standards, alongside the supply of five pre-owned AS365 helicopters fully refurbished as a harmonised AS365N3+ fleet. This upgrade includes the installation of a night vision goggles compatible glass cockpit, state-of-the-art autopilot with search-and-rescue mode, as well as enhanced radio and communication systems. 

Ching Yen-Yuan, Director-General, National Airborne Service Corps. commented: “The AS365 helicopters have proven critical in our rescue missions, enabling us to respond swiftly and effectively during emergencies. This timely fleet modernisation in alignment with the international safety standards ensures that the NASC remains at the forefront of rescue operations, equipped with the best assets and capabilities to serve the public.” 

Vincent Dubrule, Head of Asia-Pacific, Airbus Helicopters stated: “The AS365 fleet has been the backbone of NASC’s operations, delivering safe missions for more than 35 years. This recapitalisation programme demonstrates Airbus’ capability to deliver practical and customised solutions that meet exacting operational requirements. By upgrading NASC’s helicopters to AS365N3+ standards, the harmonised fleet will enhance operational capability, reliability and safety, while delivering mission success for many years to come.”

This upgrading programme brings the fleet in line with the latest AS365N3+ standards, enhancing performance and capabilities for critical missions such as maritime rescue, disaster relief, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation. The modernisation is poised to optimise operational efficiency while harmonising the fleet for improved mission delivery.

NASC’s AS365 helicopters have been in service since 1990, deployed for search and rescue, disaster relief, emergency medical service, transportation, reconnaissance and surveillance. The fleet has flown an impressive 70,000 hours, carrying out over 37,000 lifesaving missions across Taiwan. Over the past three decades, these helicopters have directly contributed to rescuing more than 2,000 lives, underscoring NASC’s reputation as a pivotal force in Taiwan’s emergency response and rescue operations.

 
Delivery of the retrofitted helicopters will begin progressively in 2028, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2030. The modernised fleet will also benefit from Airbus’ Fleet Availability programme, which ensures comprehensive fleet management services and support to NASC. Airbus will oversee the maintenance operations and manage end-to-end logistics.