The Texas Department of Public Safety has acquired its first Bell 407 helicopter since the 1980s, the DPS said in a media release.
The aircraft unveiled Thursday is a big investment in the agency’s aviation capabilities and efforts to modernize and expand airborne law enforcement operations across Texas, the DPS said.
“This aircraft represents a major step forward in how we support law enforcement from the air,” Chief of Aircraft Operations Stacy Holland said in the media release. “With the addition of advanced technology and expanded capabilities, we’re enhancing our ability to provide real-time support, improve situational awareness and better serve Texas communities.”
Last year, the DPS Aircraft Operations Division said it was operating a helicopter and fixed wing aircraft in San Angelo and that residents might notice more activity in the skies.
The Bell 407 unveiled Thursday is a single-engine aircraft designed to carry up to six passengers and is widely recognized as a comfortable and efficient passenger transport helicopter, the DPS said.
The helicopter will be based in Austin and will soon deliver airborne law enforcement support across Central Texas as a part of continuing aerial assistance for DPS’ partner agencies and communities served by the Aircraft Operations Division.
In addition, by the end of 2026, the helicopter will be upgraded to incorporate advanced technology, the DPS said.
The new tech will include integrated police radio systems, a high-definition thermal imaging camera, an augmented reality mapping system and satellite connectivity, the DPS said.
The DPS was able to buy the helicopter with funding appropriated in the last legislative session.
The Aircraft Operations Division has 13 duty stations, 27 aircraft with state-of-the-art technology and over 100 personnel, the DPS said.
This article originally appeared on San Angelo Standard-Times: Texas DPS unveils new helicopter for law enforcement fleet
Reporting by San Angelo Standard-Times / San Angelo Standard-Times
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