AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has a new $6.5 million helicopter.
KVUE got an up-close look at the state-of-the-art helicopter, which will be used for rescues, vehicle pursuits and conservation law enforcement work.
"We are looking at a brand-new 2023 Airbus, H125 A Star helicopter,” TPWD Game Warden Aviation Chief Pilot Brandon Rose said.
The helicopter is equipped with a daytime camera and a thermal camera used at night, a PA system, a hoist and police radio antennas. The hoist is used in rescues like during a hurricane.
“Where we lower or rescue a swimmer and maybe a basket and pull the victim up and get them to safety,” Rose said.
Thermal cameras pick up people and objects by heat. During a pitch-black night, this can help assist law enforcement in vehicle pursuits.
The helicopter can reach speeds up to 150 mph.