Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first two H225M Caracal helicopters to the French Armament General Directorate (DGA).
These are the first of eight aircraft ordered in 2021 to replace aging Puma helicopters in service with the French Air and Space Force. The H225Ms will operate in overseas territories such as French Guyana, Djibouti, and New Caledonia, where they will undertake operational, search and rescue, and utility missions.
The H225M Caracal is renowned for its performance in combat, search and rescue, disaster response, and medical evacuation missions.
“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,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “The French Air and Space 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.”
The helicopters feature cutting-edge technology, including the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, Sigma inertial navigation system, Thales VUHF radio TRA6034, and the TSC4000 IFF transponder. These systems enhance the aircraft’s situational awareness, navigation, and communication capabilities.
By replacing the Puma fleet, the H225Ms contribute to the harmonization of the French Air and Space Force’s helicopter fleet, ensuring greater operational readiness and versatility. The Caracal’s proven reliability, demonstrated in various combat zones and crisis areas worldwide, underscores its suitability for demanding missions.
The H225M is a trusted platform globally, with more than 350 aircraft in service across 13 countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Iraq, Thailand, and Brazil. Collectively, the fleet has accumulated over 880,000 flight hours, highlighting its durability and dependability.