From vehicles to take-off

Fuji Heavy Vehicles has won a Ministry of Defence contract to develop a next-generation utility helicopter for the Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF). Fuji, which also makes Subaru vehicles, will develop the helicopter with Bell Helicopter Textron. The Fuji-Bell 412+ helicopter will provide a platform for next-generation choppers in the JGSDF. It will be an advanced version of the 412EPI, which is currently used in search-and-rescue operations. Fuji has also signed an agreement with Boeing to help develop and produce the Boeing 777x. It will be responsible for the centre-wing section, and its integration with the main landing-gear wheel wells, gear doors and forward wing-to-body fairings. Boeing says production will begin in 2017 with first delivery targeted for 2020. Wallis Dumper, managing director of Subaru of New Zealand, says the marque is known for its technical innovation. While the company is smaller than other car manufacturers, Fuji’s technologies “reflect how strong the company is when it comes to the engineering quality of its cars and aircraft”.