The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) has taken delivery of the first two H225M helicopters from Airbus. These helicopters are part of an order for eight placed in 2021. They will be operated by the French Air and Space Force, replacing ageing Pumas currently stationed overseas in French territories, including French Guiana, Djibouti and New Caledonia. Their roles will encompass operational missions, search and rescue operations and utility tasks, supporting the harmonisation of the French Air and Space Force’s helicopter fleet.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, commented: “The delivery of these two brand new H225Ms to the French Air and Space Force is very symbolic as France was the first operator of the H225M. They have proven on multiple occasions the benefit of this rotorcraft for combat, search and rescue, disaster management and medical evacuation missions”. “We are very proud that the French Air and Space Force has renewed their trust in the Caracal,” he added. “The French Air and Space Air Force will benefit from all the innovations that have been implemented on the H225M since the helicopter started operations in 2006 with the French armed forces, further expanding the capabilities of this unique aircraft.”
The newly acquired H225Ms are equipped with advanced avionics and cutting-edge systems, including the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, the Sigma inertial navigation system, the Thales VUHF radio TRA6034, and an IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) transponder TSC4000. These features ensure the helicopters are optimised for complex missions in diverse and challenging environments.
Globally, the H225M has established a reputation for reliability and resilience in combat and crisis zones. With more than 350 H225 and H225M helicopters in service, the fleet has amassed over 880,000 flight hours. Operators around the world, including Malaysia, Iraq, Brazil, and Hungary, rely on the H225M for its proven performance in a wide range of demanding scenarios.
