The engines were given full FADEC (Full-Authority Digital Engine Control) capability and encompassed 2 x Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207D turboshaft types rated at 710 horsepower apiece. Performance specs included a maximum speed of 160 miles per hour, a cruising speed of 160 mph, a range out to 395 miles and a service ceiling of 10,000 feet. Rate-of-climb reached 2,000 feet-per-minute.
Dimensions included a length of 37.5 feet, a width (including the main rotor) of 37 feet and a height of 10.5 feet. Empty weight became 3,880lb against an MTOW of 6,550lb.
In 2004 the Model 427i was proposed which involved both South Korea and Japan industries. However, this product was given up in favor of the more promising Model 429. In 2008, the Model 427 line was officially axed by Bell Helicopters after only two foreign customers were secured (Argentine police and a private Czech operator).
The new Iranian PANHA Saba-248 helicopter is believed to be based on the short-lived Bell Model 427. This helicopter is detailed in its own entry elsewhere on this site.
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