Airbus Helicopters said Tuesday that Bristow Group has taken delivery of the first two Airbus H160 aircraft leased from Milestone Aviation Group, marking the introduction of the next-generation rotorcraft to offshore transportation operations in Nigeria.

The helicopters arrived in Nigeria, where they are undergoing final preparations ahead of entering service in the coming months, Airbus said in a press release.

The delivery follows an agreement announced last year under which Bristow will lease five H160 helicopters from Milestone. The aircraft are expected to support offshore transportation services for the energy sector in West Africa, where helicopter transport is widely used to move workers and equipment to offshore oil and gas installations.

“The introduction of the H160 into Nigeria represents a meaningful step forward for our offshore operations in West Africa,” said Stu Stavely, chief operating officer for offshore energy services at Bristow. He said the helicopter’s range, payload capacity in a 12-passenger configuration, and ability to operate from smaller helidecks would enhance operational flexibility for offshore missions.

Milestone Aviation chief executive Pat Sheedy said the leasing company was “pleased to support Bristow with the lease of five new H160s,” adding that the investment reflects growing demand for next-generation medium and super-medium helicopters capable of supporting mission-critical operations globally.

According to Airbus, the H160 incorporates advanced technology aimed at improving safety, comfort, and efficiency. The manufacturer says the aircraft offers an 18 percent reduction in fuel consumption compared with previous-generation helicopters in its class.

“The arrival of these first two H160s in Nigeria is a proud moment for Airbus Helicopters,” said Bruno Even, chief executive of Airbus Helicopters, noting the aircraft’s role in supporting offshore energy operations.

Bristow plans to receive three additional H160 helicopters under the leasing agreement, which Airbus said will help the operator build one of the most modern offshore helicopter fleets in Africa.

The H160, one of Airbus Helicopters’ latest medium-twin models, is designed for a range of missions, including offshore transportation, search and rescue, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and private aviation. The aircraft has already entered service in countries including Brazil, Canada, China, France, India, Japan, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.