MD Helicopters delivers second helicopter to Polk County Florida

The Polk County Florida Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) has taken delivery of second MD 500E helicopter, which would boost support, safety and effectiveness of law enforcement missions for PCSO’s Aviation Unit.

MD Helicopters chief commercial officer Craig Kitchen said: "We are honoured to deliver a second MD 500E to expand the mission capabilities of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit.

"The 500E offers outstanding speed, agility, low operating costs and unmatched versatility to enable safe and efficient airborne law enforcement missions."

Powered by a 420-shp Rolls-Royce 250-C20B turbine engine, MD500E helicopter is mainly delivered as part of PCSO’s modernisation plan of remaining OH-58 aircraft.

In addition to integrating a complete law enforcement performance package, the MD 500E’s cockpit configuration will feature latest avionics with NVG lighting, a Garmin G500H glass cockpit, an AeroComputers moving map system and a Technisonic tactical radio.

The helicopter will also feature a Meeker mount; nightsun searchlight; 2,000lb cargo hook; auxiliary fuel tank; and wire strike protection kit.

PCSO captain Rob Oakman said: "This newest addition to our fleet has been equipped to significantly increase our support capabilities to ground units with pursuits, backup, surveillance, and search and rescue missions."

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit has been operational since 1972 with seven full-time pilots and 10 part-time flight officers.