January 21, 2009: In a sharp break with tradition, Japan is buying military helicopters from an European manufacturer, rather than the United States. Japan has ordered two EC135 helicopters (for training pilots) from EADS, with the possibility of getting 13 more if the first two perform satisfactorily. The EC135 is a three ton, twin engine helicopter that appeared on the market 14 years ago. It has been popular with civilian customers, although some military purchases have been made as well. It can carry one pilot and up to seven passengers. Or two crew and two patients on stretchers.