State Police Unveil New Helicopter

Maryland State Police unveiled Maryland's newest medevac unit on Friday.

In an event Friday afternoon, Gov. Martin O'Malley, state police Col. Marcus Brown, elected officials and emergency medical personnel showed off the state's new AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter, which will be on display at the state's Police Aviation Command headquarters at Martin State Airport in Middle River.

According to state police, the helicopter is the first of 10 that AgustaWestland is contracted to build for the state. Ten of the 11 helicopters MSP currently has in service are more than 20 years old.

The new helicopters will come equipped with high-end avionics and instuments, night vision, warning systems and satellite capabilities. The new helicopters boast the largest cabin and fastest speed in their weight class, according to state officials. State police hope to have paramedics and pilots trained in the new aircraft by early 2013.

In a release Friday, O'Malley said the $121.7 million contract would modernize the police force.

"Together, with the men and women of Maryland’s law enforcement, we’ve driven down violent crime, homicides and property crimes to 30-year lows. And through our actions together, we can create a better, safer tomorrow," he said.