Morocco’s Royal Moroccan Air Force is set to enhance its operational capabilities with a new order of ten H225M helicopters from Airbus Helicopters. These aircraft are designated for use in combat search and rescue missions, marking a significant upgrade from the aging Puma helicopters currently in service.
While the specifics surrounding the contract’s total cost and delivery timeline remain undisclosed, it is notable that the order comes with a comprehensive support and service package. The new H225M helicopters will be equipped with advanced features such as a double hoist installation, a searchlight, and the highly sophisticated Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system. Additionally, each helicopter will come armed with machine guns and equipped with an electronic warfare self-protection suite, enhancing their operational effectiveness.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, expressed pride in Morocco’s decision to modernize its fleet, stating that the H225M is gaining traction in the market and is well-suited for Morocco’s needs. The helicopter is already deployed by several countries, including France, Iraq, and Thailand, showcasing its versatility and reliability.
The H225M is designed as a multi-role aircraft, capable of performing various missions beyond just combat search and rescue, including special operations, tactical transport, and medical evacuation. It is powered by two Safran Makila 2A1 engines, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 324 kilometers (201 miles) per hour and maintain a cruising speed of 262 kilometers (163 miles) per hour.
This helicopter’s operational flexibility is further highlighted by its ability to function from both ships and land bases, equipped to handle all weather conditions and compatible with full night-vision capabilities. With standard fuel tanks, the H225M can range up to 920 kilometers (572 miles), extending to 1,253 kilometers (778 miles) with additional fuel capacity. It can also remain in the air for up to four hours and 30 minutes, providing significant operational time for various missions.
Designed to transport up to 31 personnel, the H225M has a maximum takeoff weight of 11,000 kilograms (24,251 pounds), which increases to 11,200 kilograms (24,691 pounds) when carrying external loads.
Airbus has a well-established presence in Morocco through its Airbus Atlantic subsidiary, which focuses on producing composite and metallic components and supporting avionics systems. In an effort to bolster support for the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, Airbus opened a customer service center in 2024 dedicated to servicing the 60 Airbus helicopters already in operation. There are ongoing discussions about expanding this site into a comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul hub for the West African region, further solidifying Airbus’s commitment to the area and its clients.
