The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department is going high-tech to protect and serve from the sky in a new helicopter, debuted Thursday.
The $4.8 million, Bell 407GX chopper is equipped a camera that can switch to thermal imaging, thanks to its infrared capabilities – a big asset during night searches.
The all-glass cockpit contains a moving map which delivers weather and traffic in real time.
“Our primary mission is patrol support to the ground units,” said Corporal Kevin Randall, the chief pilot. “That's what this aircraft will primarily be used for. So any agency in the county that calls us we'll go and support their units.”
Deputies also plan to use it for search and rescue operations, as well as firefighting. It has a bucket, known as a “bambi bucket,” that can be attached to drop water on flames.
The helicopter will be crewed by the pilot and a tactical flight officer, both of whom are deputies. It can carry five passengers.
The sheriff’s department says it is in the process of buying a Bell 205 firefighting chopper. It should be delivered this fall.
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At that point, the department will have nine total helicopters: six for law enforcement and three for firefighting and search and rescue.
