Airbus Helicopters has handed over two new H225M helicopters to the French Armament General Directorate (DGA). These aircraft are the first of eight ordered by France in 2021. They will be operated by the French Air and Space Force, replacing older Puma helicopters currently in use in overseas territories such as French Guyana, Djibouti, and New Caledonia. The new helicopters will help standardize the French Air and Space Force’s fleet and will be deployed for operational missions, search and rescue operations, and utility tasks.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, highlighted the significance of the delivery. “France was the first operator of the H225M, and these new helicopters symbolize the continued trust the French Air and Space Force has in this model,” he said. “The H225M has repeatedly demonstrated its value in combat, search and rescue, disaster management, and medical evacuation missions. We are proud to see the French Air and Space Force benefit from the latest innovations integrated into the H225M since its introduction in 2006.”
The eight H225Ms ordered by France in 2021 come equipped with advanced avionics, including the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system and the Sigma inertial navigation system. Additional upgrades include the Thales VUHF radio TRA6034 and the IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) transponder TSC4000. These features enhance the helicopter’s capabilities for a wide range of missions.
The H225M, also known as the Caracal, has a proven track record of reliability and durability in combat zones and crisis areas worldwide. Over 350 H225 and H225M helicopters are currently in service globally, collectively logging more than 880,000 flight hours. Military operators of the H225M include France, Malaysia, Indonesia, Iraq, Thailand, Singapore, Mexico, the Netherlands, Kuwait, Brazil, and Hungary.
This delivery marks another milestone in the long-standing partnership between Airbus Helicopters and the French armed forces, reinforcing the H225M’s reputation as a versatile and dependable aircraft.
