The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF, Kong Thap Akat Thai) has taken delivery of four new Airbus H225M Tactical Transport helicopters, as part of the fleet strengthening programme. With these latest deliveries, the RTAF’s fleet totals 12 Airbus H225Ms under its fleet modernisation program. These four helicopters will join the air force’s fleet for combat search and rescue, search and rescue flights and troop transport missions. This latest contract will also cover on-site technical support and continuing airworthiness management organisation services, fully supported by Airbus’ Thailand team.
The Royal Thai Air Force H225M features state-of-the-art electronic instruments and the renowned 4-axis autopilot system, the 11-ton-catergory twin-turbine H225M offers outstanding endurance and fast cruise speed, and may be fitted with various equipment to suit any role. Specially equipped with emergency flotation gear, fast roping, cargo sling, search light and electro-optical systems, these four new multirole H225M helicopters will join Royal Thai Air Force’s existing fleet for combat search and rescue missions, search and rescue flights and troop transport operations.
The Airbus Helicopters H225M (previously known as EC725) Caracal, is a long-range tactical transport military helicopter developed from the Eurocopter AS532 Cougar for military use. It is a twin-engined aircraft and can carry up to 28 seated troops along with two crew, depending on customer configuration. The helicopter is marketed for troop transport, casualty evacuation, and combat search and rescue duties, and is similar to the civilian EC225 Super Puma. The H225M is relied upon by Brazil, France, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Singapore, Thailand, and Kuwait to support their most demanding missions.
The helicopter can be fitted with removable armour plating to protect the troops and is powered by two Turbomeca Makila 1A4 turboshaft engines mounted over the cabin, which feature a dual-channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC) system. The cockpit is equipped with an integrated display system featuring a digital map and active-matrix liquid-crystal display. The EC725 can be equipped with armaments, such as a pair of 7.62 mm FN MAG machine guns mounted within forward left and right windows, or a pair of 68 mm (2.75″) Thales Brandtside-mounted rocket launchers, the MU90 Impact aerial-launched torpedo and Exocet anti-ship missile.
