6 April 2020: RUAG MRO Switzerland has modified the EC 635 helicopter, normally used by Swiss Army for education and training, for COVID-19 patients. This is done in collaboration its partners; armasuisse and the Swiss Air Force. The infrastructure of this helicopter is modified for a spatial separation of the cockpit from the cabin. This ensures that pilots are safe from the infection.
Besides this important factors are also taken into consideration like disinfecting the entire helicopter and proper inspection of different medical devices required by COVID-19 patients for any possible interference-generating signals.
"We are moving closer together, and not due to the on-going decoupling process alone. These extraordinary situations in particular demonstrate mutual trust and outstanding collaboration. In this way, it is possible for us to elaborate effective solutions together in order to aid those who are dependent upon our help", says Andreas Baumann, General Manager of Helicopters, RUAG MRO Switzerland.
Currently two helicopters have already been repurposed and are ready for use by the Air Force. RUAG MRO Switzerland has also ensured that the necessary production mechanisms are in place for the short-term modification of further EC 635-type helicopters.
Due to the large dimensions the helicopter is also used as a mission aircraft, and it is the most frequently used helicopter for emergency services worldwide. For the Swiss Army too, it is used for individual and patient transport, and for this purpose is equipped with standard materials for medical care.