The Delaware State Police (DSP) Aviation Section has officially expanded its fleet with the addition of two new Bell 429 Global Ranger helicopters. These advanced aircraft arrived in Delaware on December 3, 2024, after being assembled in Mirabel, Quebec, Canada, and Piney Flats, Tennessee. Their addition brings the total DSP helicopter fleet to four, addressing prior operational challenges and enhancing mission readiness.
The Bell 429 Global Ranger is known for its speed, range, and hover capabilities, making it ideal for a variety of missions, including law enforcement, air medical services, and search-and-rescue operations. Each helicopter is equipped with a spacious cabin, extra-large 60-inch side doors for rapid loading and unloading, and an advanced fully integrated glass cockpit.
After years of operating with a reduced fleet of three helicopters, the decision was made in 2023 to increase the fleet to four. One of the existing aircraft was traded in to facilitate this upgrade as part of the acquisition process. This strategic move ensured the modernization of the fleet without compromising operational readiness. Operating with only three helicopters had previously led to an accelerated maintenance schedule, limited training opportunities, and reduced redundancy during mechanical issues.
According to online pricing, the Bell 429 Global Ranger has an average market price of approximately $7.3 million per helicopter. DSP did not disclosed the total cost of acquiring their two new helicopters or detailed the value received from trading in their older aircraft. The online Delaware Open Checkbook does not show the expenditure to Bell Textron.
With tail numbers “N2SP” and “N71SP,” the helicopters showcase Delaware’s longstanding tradition of unique identifiers. These aircraft are the first in law enforcement to include rear-view cameras, improving pilot visibility during takeoff and landing. They also feature cutting-edge digital gauges, upgraded monitors, and enhanced camera systems to aid in operations.
In addition to bolstering law enforcement capabilities, the new helicopters enhance DSP’s medical response. The aircraft are outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, including blood warmers for lifesaving transfusions, Zoll heart monitors, advanced airway management tools, ventilators, and infusion pumps. In 2024, the Aviation Section transported 526 patients to trauma centers, a mission critical to Delaware’s emergency medical services.
Captain Jeff Whitmarsh, Commander of the DSP Aviation Section, emphasized the importance of the new additions: “These new aircraft represent a significant leap forward in our mission to serve and protect the people of Delaware. They enhance our capacity, efficiency, and capability to serve the First State from above.”
The helicopter’s 2023 order coincided with DSP’s 100th anniversary, marking a century of service to Delaware’s citizens and visitors.