Airbus has secured a significant contract with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) to supply two additional H225 multirole helicopters, bolstering the air force’s fleet of these versatile machines. The new helicopters will join an existing complement of 12 H225Ms that have been operational since 2015, performing various critical tasks such as troop transport, search and rescue missions, and combat support.
The integration of the new H225s is expected to enhance the RTAF’s capabilities in emergency medical services and critical recovery operations, reaffirming the military’s dedication to national security and humanitarian assistance efforts. To facilitate the assembly of these helicopters, state-owned Thai Aviation Industries in Don Muang will collaborate with Airbus, a move aimed at leveraging Thailand’s local expertise in aerospace.
Olivier Michalon, the Executive Vice President of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, expressed gratitude for the ongoing trust and confidence the RTAF has shown in the H225 helicopters. He emphasized that this follow-on order highlights the H225’s range of capabilities and its vital role in supporting both defense and public service missions. Michalon noted the importance of the partnership, asserting that it enables the RTAF to have access to sophisticated tools necessary for their critical operations.
The H225 stands out as a medium-lift helicopter, measuring 20 meters (66 feet) in length with a rotor span of 16 meters (52 feet). It is equipped to accommodate a crew of two pilots along with a passenger capacity of up to 19 individuals. The helicopter boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 11,200 kilograms (24,692 pounds), and it is designed with a robust fuel capacity of 2,771 kilograms (6,109 pounds). Additionally, it can transport cargo weighing 5,401 kilograms (11,907 pounds) or engage in sling load operations of up to 4,750 kilograms (10,472 pounds).
The H225 is powered by two Safran Makila 2A1 engines, each generating 2,101 shaft horsepower. This enables the helicopter to reach speeds of up to 324 kilometers (201 miles) per hour, with a maximum operational range of 1,130 kilometers (702 miles) and an impressive service ceiling of 6,095 meters (19,997 feet). With endurance capabilities of up to six hours, the H225 is engineered for reliability and effectiveness in various mission profiles.
Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul of the Royal Thai Air Force underscored the significance of the H225M, noting that it has been an invaluable asset over the past decade, delivering excellent performance even in challenging operations. The addition of the two new helicopters is anticipated to further enhance the RTAF’s capacity to serve and protect the citizens of Thailand, ensuring they can respond effectively to emergencies regardless of their nature.
